The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show 2020
"The week late night TV woke America."
In February 1968, a pivotal moment in television history unfolded when Harry Belafonte became the first African-American to host *The Tonight Show* for an entire week.
Director: Yoruba Richen
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show (2020) about?
This documentary explores Harry Belafonte's historic week as guest host of *The Tonight Show* in 1968, marking the first time an African-American led a late-night TV program for an entire week. The film examines the cultural and social impact of his tenure, blending archival footage with insights from contemporaries like Whoopi Goldberg and Questlove.
Who directed The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show?
The film was directed by Yoruba Richen, a filmmaker known for her work on social justice and historical documentaries.
Who stars in The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show?
The documentary features interviews with Harry Belafonte, Whoopi Goldberg, Tamron Hall, Questlove, and Robin Thede, offering firsthand perspectives on the historic week.
Is The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show (2020) worth watching?
For documentary lovers and history buffs, this film is a must-watch. With a runtime of just 75 minutes, it packs a powerful punch, offering both entertainment and a deep dive into a transformative moment in media history. Its themes of progress and representation remain relevant today.
How long is The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show?
The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show (2020) runs for 75 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show (2020) — How One Week Changed Television History
In February 1968, a pivotal moment in television history unfolded when Harry Belafonte became the first African-American to host *The Tonight Show* for an entire week. This gripping documentary, directed by Yoruba Richen, revisits the week-long "sit-in" that changed late-night TV forever. Through archival footage and interviews with Whoopi Goldberg, Tamron Hall, Questlove, and others, the film captures the tension, inspiration, and cultural significance of Belafonte's groundbreaking tenure. The documentary explores themes of racial progress, media representation, and the power of television as a tool for social change.
The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show (2020) paints a vivid picture of an era when a single week on air could challenge norms and inspire generations. Richen's direction blends nostalgia with sharp social commentary, highlighting Belafonte's role as both an entertainer and a civil rights activist. The film isn't just a celebration of television's past—it's a reminder of how one bold act can shift the cultural landscape.