David Crane: From <i>Friends</i> to <i>The Class</i>

Why doesn't this new Friends-like ensemble show star an African-American actor, as Asian or any people of colour?

I have to talk about a new show debuting this fall on CBS called The Class. It's created and written by David Crane, the genius who made millions laugh with the sitcom, Friends.

The premise of The Class is simple: eight people who were in Grade three together are reunited after 20-some years. As their lives intersect much hilarity ensues. Presumably.

The pilot had some very funny moments but here's my beef. It's 2006 and there's not a single person of colour on the show. I put that question to David Crane and he responsed, "It's unfortunate."

He went on to say that the casting had been colour-blind but that they had absolutely found the right people in the castmembers who flanked him onstage. There are two British actors among the unknowns (except for Ethan played by Jason Ritter, son of the late John Ritter). They've also got a refugee, Andrea Anders, from the shipwreck of Joey.

Crane also said the Grade three class had 28 pupils so it's possible a non-white character will be introduced later on. But what are the odds that character will become a beloved addition?

Remember when Ross started dating Julie on Friends? She wasn't exactly the most popular with fans. Perhaps it's because she upset the delicate chemistry of the established cast? There's something to be said for working a little harder, casting the net a little wider, and making a conscious effort to find great talent from other communities. Better storylines, more textured characters and, surprise, more chances for comedy!

It's not that hard, just turn to BET - there are scores of series with fantastic actors.

It's 2006 and the time for mixing and mingling is long overdue. The time for television to represent the real world is long overdue. The fictitious world will be better for it.