About this episode

This episode explores the impact of the play 'Emperor Jones' and its lead actor Charles Gilpin on Broadway and Black history.

In 1920, Emperor Jones was a bona fide Broadway hit. The controversial play’s lead is Charles Gilpin, the first Black man to head up an integrated cast on the Great White Way. Gilpin enjoys fame, accolades, and universal acclaim…but he does have a note for his playwright Eugene O’Neil. A note that will make and break careers and change the course of Black history!

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Emperor Jones

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