What would we do without the "Magical Negro"?

The “Magical Negro” is as simple as it sounds. The black character magically helps and/or advises the other character through their hardships. The “Magical Negro” does not have the advanced background and can be primarily seen as an object or tool that is used by the other characters, usually of white decent. We feel bad for them if something happens, but cannot situate ourselves in their shoes. The character is usually happy to help guide the other characters along while they stay in a fixed position. The “Magical Negro” does not up rise and become a dominant character, they stay helpful and subservient. Of course the first problem I see with this type of character is that it reminds me of the history of slavery. The black character serves the sole purpose to help the white character. Without the white character, there would be no black character.

In relation to this idea of the “Magical Negro” it is important to look at recent shows or movies we have watched to see how often this character is present. I have been watching the show, Hart of Dixie, and I did not realize until after reading Matthew Hughey’s article, Cinethetic Racism, that Lavon Hayes is a “Magical Negro”. The African American character is a retired football player that now serves as the Mayor of a small southern town. Not only does Lavon Hayes play a sport, a stereotypical relation to African Americans, but he also assists the entire town with their troubles throughout the episodes.  He is always the go to character and always has a smile on his face. I think it is interesting that the mayor was chosen to be black. Many people would think that this is a dominant role and that it is a step in the right direction, but in actuality he accompanies the white characters through their lives. From the outside it looks like a good change in the stereotypical black character, but the problem still exists. He is still a character without much complexity and plays a subservient role.