Why Aren't There More Latinos On TV?

Published January 27, 2015 at 1:35 PM EST

Cristela Alonzo stars in the ABC sitcom "Cristela." She also created and writes for the show. (Adam Taylor/ABC)

The big four television networks have made progress in diversifying their casts, but only among African-American actors. That’s according to recent numbers compiled by the Associated Press.

Latinos represent about 17 percent of the American population, but on network T.V., that group represents less than 10 percent of characters.

NPR TV Critic Eric Deggans joins Here & Now’s Lisa Mullins to discuss why it might be that Latino Americans continue to be snubbed in casting, in spite of the fact they tend to consume more media by percentage than another other group.

Guest

Eric Deggans, TV critic for NPR. He tweets @Deggans.

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Donate