True Friendship
Sullivan continued to give Black entertainers on his show a platform that was frequently denied to them elsewhere despite the criticism he received from a large number of people at the time. Particularly, Sullivan developed a close friendship with one performer that would last until his passing. When musician Bill “Bojangles” Robinson passed away, his devoted friend and supporter Sullivan covered the cost of his funeral.
True Friendship
Making a Difference
Years after Sullivan’s show’s airing, a TV documentary examining the truth behind it and the lengths he took to fight racism and support the careers of black entertainers was broadcast. Sullivision examined the impact Sullivan’s commitment to anti-racism and equality had on the culture of American entertainment and beyond. The Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, Lena Horne, Smokey Robinson, Nat King Cole, and Ray Charles, among others, all got their big breaks on the venerable program.
Making A Difference
