In 1968, SOUL!, America’s first all-black variety show, premiered on public television. As a dedicated platform for art, community, and culture, the series was a major turning point in black representation and a monumental achievement in the fight for social justice that still resonates today.
This month, learn the incredible story of the man who created and guided the program through a pivotal moment in television history. In a feature-length documentary from the Independent Lens collection, Mr. SOUL! uses vibrant footage and detailed interviews with black luminaries who were impacted by the show,capturing a revolutionary time in American culture and entertainment in vivid detail. Anchoring the film is Ellis Haizlip - creator, producer, and host of the show - whose earnest demeanor, low-key interviewing style, and passion for the arts made for an authentic program that depicted the black experience in a bold and unapologetic way.
The film also incorporates music performances from legendary artists like Al Green, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind & Fire, and more, spoken-word performances from The Last Poets and Sonia Sanchez, dance performances by Carmen de Lavallade, and interviews with James Baldwin, Nikki Giovanni, Muhammad Ali, Maya Angelou, and many others.
Mr. SOUL! airs on June 24 at 9 p.m.
WSBE Rhode Island PBStransmits over the air in high definition on digital 36.1; Cox 08 / 1008HD, Verizon FiOS 08 / 508HD, and Full Channel 08; Comcast 819HD and Verizon FiOS 18 / 518HD in MA; DirecTV 36, Dish Network 36. Live stream the full broadcast schedule at watch.ripbs.org/livestream.
