When do Hollywood's efforts at increased diversity feel like progress, and when do they feel like pandering? That's the question pondered on the latest "Low Key" podcast, thanks to a report that a black actress, Lashana Lynch, may play 007 in the next James Bond film. You can listen below or right here:
On every episode of the "Low Key" podcast, co-hosts Aaron Lanton, Keith Dennie and me talk about pop culture subtleties, often through a racial lens. This week we're joined by super-guest host Sarah Lanton, who happens to be married to Aaron.
On this episode, we talk about how we're happy to hear that Lashana Lynch might play 007 (James Bond will reportedly still be played by Daniel Craig) — but wonder if her casting is meant as a way to placate fans who want a black James Bond — specifically Idris Elba.
Our discussion of the Bond franchise leads us into a discussion of the American James Bond, Batman. That in turn leads to a discussion of the CW's new "Batwoman," played by Ruby Rose — and how much Keith does not like the trailer. He explains why, and I explain why I'm looking forward to "Batwoman."
Here are a few of the other subjects we handle, and when they occur in the podcast, with timestamps:
1:55: I express my strong reservations about The Daily Mail newspaper, which reported on Lashana Lynch's casting.
3:22: Is Lashana Lynch's casting an attempt to placate us?
