PBS will postpone new seasons of its documentary series “Finding Your Roots” after determining actor Ben Affleck was able to convince the series’ producers to omit a reference in an episode that aired in October to the fact that he has slave-owning ancestors.
PBS said it had decided to delay the third season of the series until its producers could hire an additional factchecker and an independent genealogist. PBS also said it would not commit to a fourth season of the series “until we are satisfied that the editorial standards of the series have been successfully raised to a level in which we can have confidence.”
Source: Variety
carol says
When actors agree to participate in this show, they should be aware that facts might be uncovered that are not to their liking. however, the actors should not be able to delete certain parts of their history; it is all or nothing. we all have items in our past that possibly are not well-liked, but the ancestors cannot be controlled by us and we should not be ashamed of what they did! We have no control over them.
Mabel says
I agree. There is no changing history. And pretending it isn’t what it is, is silly.
Kathy Gaddis says
Dear PBS, pleasepleaseplease do not give up on Finding Your Roots! I am ready and excited for Season 4!
Wanda Irwin says
I agree with all comments in the above! NO ACTOR should be able to dictate what is heard about their ancestors. Everyone has ancestors and they all did things. I know for sure that some of mine had slaves, but, that was them that was then and this is now! So, please, please, please put Season 4 on!!!!
I love this show and I do not have cable so I can not watch the paid tv. I would actually like to get in touch with Henry Gates, Jr. myself for a little help.
Paula says
BooHoo! That’s half the fun of this show is finding all of the details. I for one have picked up a few tips for doing my own research and I too could use a little help from these people on some of my knots.
Karen says
Was the information not true or was it something Ben Affleck didn’t want known? Maybe knowing the skeletons in your closet is good for people. It might make people stop and think before judging others.
Sophia Rivera says
This is my only show, I love love love this show we watch it as a family every Tuesday, please don’t take away my show. I agree with everyone else’s comments. Ben Affleck stop with the trying to cheat didn’t you learn from your marriage woes. Dang!