BlackGeekdom Science-Fiction from a Different Perspective

The episode entitled “Hero” marked the return of Pete Ross (played by Sam Jones III) to Smallville.  The story revolved around Pete gaining a superpower and then getting on his high horse and telling Clark that he wasn’t going to be like him and not keep his “gift” a secret.   On paper, the story’s a fairly good idea.  But, the best laid plans of mice and white men oft go awry.  WIthout going into a litany of powers that white male “meteor freaks,” were endowed with, let’s just say that it seems as Pete got leftovers.  

Pete “Stretchy Man” Ross.  You are asking yourself what’s wrong with being stretchy?  I’ll give them that Plastic Man and Elongated Man are cult favorites of fans of the Justice League B Team, and let’s not forget the ever popular Reed “Mr. Fantastic” Richards of the Fantastic Four.  But come on people!!!  Why you giving the only black man on your show some lame ass power?!?!  Sweet Christmas!!!  Hopefully, he’s done.  I was so distracted by the lame ass power that I didn’t even pay attention to the subplot that was moving along the long story arc. 

It’s not bad enough that the show has been white washed, but to bring Pete back with this lame ass power goes to show you that the writers on the show have completely lost touch with reality.  At least in the comic book world, African American characters are treated with more respect.  Honestly, I have never liked Pete Ross’s character on the show, but it was okay since it added diversity to the show.  But maybe I’m overlooking the main point.  Television has been white washed.  Name a major network that has a show with more than two African American characters.

Posted under Articles, Television