Zildjean's definitions
"Magical Negroes" are characters of color that appear in otherwise totally-Caucasian works of fiction. These characters are hardworking, righteous and usually have magical powers, but despite their supernatural prowess they have no impact on the progress of the plot.
The "Magical Negro" character does not actually have to be of African-American decent, but is always the darkest member of the cast. The character's race is rarely if ever referred to, and usually speaks perfect English.
This plot device is beloved in Hollywood, because it allows producers and directors to say, "See? We're not racist! We have a minority in a featured role!"
Stephen King is especially well known for this device; see Scatman Crothers as 'Dick Halloran' in "The Shining" or Michael Clark Duncan as 'John Coffee' in "The Green Mile". See also Idris Alba as 'Heimdall' in "Thor" or Dev Patel as 'Zuko' in "The Last Airbender".
The "Magical Negro" character does not actually have to be of African-American decent, but is always the darkest member of the cast. The character's race is rarely if ever referred to, and usually speaks perfect English.
This plot device is beloved in Hollywood, because it allows producers and directors to say, "See? We're not racist! We have a minority in a featured role!"
Stephen King is especially well known for this device; see Scatman Crothers as 'Dick Halloran' in "The Shining" or Michael Clark Duncan as 'John Coffee' in "The Green Mile". See also Idris Alba as 'Heimdall' in "Thor" or Dev Patel as 'Zuko' in "The Last Airbender".
Examples: Scatman Crothers as 'Dick Halloran' in "The Shining", Michael Clark Duncan as 'John Coffee' in "The Green Mile", Idris Alba as 'Heimdall' in "Thor", Dev Patel as 'Zuko' in "The Last Airbender", Magical Negroes colorblind colorblind racism
by Zildjean August 18, 2013
Get the Magical Negroesmug.