Every time one of these dating shows wraps up, we sing the same woes! Why do these casting directors include these beautiful and diverse Black women in their shows only to humiliate them and their search for love? The problematic portrayal of Black women on reality TV dating shows has been a point of concern for many Black Femme, chronically online cultural commentators for some time. But over the years, nothing has changed and there are still countless instances of Black women being marginalised, belittled, and tokenised. It has to stop.
The portrayal of Black cast members on many dating shows such as Netflix’s The Perfect Match (2023), perpetuates harmful stereotypes and discrimination. Despite some Black love success stories and calls for industry-wide change, whether or not Black women get a fair shot is complicated by the questionable legitimacy of the relationships portrayed. Discrepancies in the treatment and outcomes of Black contestants versus white contestants strongly suggest manipulation of the shows’ narratives.
But even when we know the likely outcome and even that the game is probably rigged, the whole thing remains incredibly hard to watch. Love Is Blind Season 6 has sparked numerous discussions, particularly regarding the treatment of one of its contestants, AD Smith. The portrayal of AD on the show has raised concerns about objectification, racial dynamics, and the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes.
Throughout the season, AD was subjected to objectifying comments and actions from her fellow contestants, particularly from Jimmy, whose remarks about her physique garnered attention. AD’s body became a focal point of discussion, overshadowing her personality and agency. This objectification was not only uncomfortable but also reflective of larger societal issues, including the fetishisation of Black women’s bodies. Especially their asses.
Moreover, the editing of the show seemed to emphasise AD’s physical attributes, perpetuating the stereotype of the hypersexualised Black woman. The camera angles and close-up shots during certain scenes reinforced this narrative, contributing to AD’s portrayal as a mere object of desire rather than a complex individual.
Even the way her ‘fiance’ Clay Gravesande spoke to her seemed entirely focused on himself and at best how his actions would inevitably hurt her. The worst part is that she played into this, playing the part of a supportive and submissive partner and aiding in her own erasure. The lack of acknowledgement of AD’s feelings and experiences within the narrative further underscores the show’s failure to address the harmful impact of objectification and broader patterns of silencing Black women’s voices.
Even her Femme castmates added to AD’s portrayal as a sexual object with it being revealed that Laura had told Jeremy to “Bean Dip” AD’s breasts. Imagine AD had told Clay to do that to Laura! And then there was Chelsea crying to Jimmy about him complimenting her physique. AD’s situation highlights the prevalence of racial biases and double standards. While AD was objectified and reduced to her physical appearance, little accountability was placed on those responsible for perpetuating this behaviour.
Clay, after using AD as emotional support and engaging in a physical relationship with her, abruptly dumps her at the altar, citing his unreadiness for marriage. This behaviour, unfortunately, is all too common and disproportionately affects Black women. Despite AD’s support and patience, she faced humiliation and rejection. Clay’s audacity to ask for a hug after humiliating her sadly reflects both his reliance on patriarchal entitlement and AD’s own willingness to participate in the patriarchal system.
This is not to say that we should see AD as the victim. On the contrary. At times AD seems to know good and well what she’s doing. At the Love Is Blind season 6 reunion, she made a stunning appearance in a rhinestone-encrusted gown, exuding confidence after her split with Clay. Fans praised her resilience and speculated on her future, with some suggesting she could be the next Bachelorette. Clay expressed regret for not committing to AD and admitted she’s the love of his life, but AD shut down any possibility of reconciliation with a curt “Next question.”
The objectification of AD in Love Is Blind Season 6 highlights the need to dismantle these harmful narratives and amplify the complexity of marginalised voices. AD’s story should prompt reflection on our own biases and foster empathy in our media consumption. As viewers, it’s crucial to recognise and confront these harmful portrayals, as they perpetuate stereotypes and dehumanise marginalised communities. By engaging in critical conversations and holding media accountable, we can strive for a more inclusive and equitable society.
