The 56th anniversary season debuts this week, with Callie Crossley stepping down as regular host of Basic Black.
Crossley, who has hosted the show since 2008, joins a legacy of journalists of color that hosted the program. Originally called Say Brother, the show was created in 1968 during the height of the Civil Rights Movement as a response to the demand for public television programs reflecting community concerns. Crossley will join the ensemble cast contributing to The Culture Show, a GBH News radio program debuting on Nov. 3 after Boston Public Radio. She will also continue to host her radio show and podcast, Under the Radar with Callie Crossley, and share weekly commentaries on 89.7 FM.
"Hosting Basic Black has been an incredible journey and an unparalleled opportunity to shape vital discussions on the issues underpinning the lives of people of color," Crossley said in a press release. "After more than a decade with the program, I'm eager to pass the baton to the next host, who will continue the show's important mission. Rest assured, I'm not going anywhere. I will keep sharing stories and leading conversations on Under the Radar with Callie Crossley, and I look forward to my new role, co-hosting The Culture Show in November."
Joining Crossley to look back at her favorite episodes from Basic Black over the past 15 years, are her special guest panelists: Renée Graham, associate editor and opinion columnist for The Boston Globe; Kimberly McLarin, author, professor and interim dean of graduate and professional studies at Emerson College; and Phillip Martin Sr. investigative reporter at GBH News.
Watch the latest episode of Basic Black tonight at 7:30 p.m. on GBH 2 or live at the stream below. You can also watch on the GBH News YouTube channel. Subscribe to get notifications for future premiere episodes.
