Greetings, everyone! Welcome. Recently, news surfaced that Amanda Sills, a prominent figure, will not be returning for the upcoming season of the show. Amanda cited her decision not to renew her contract, expressing discomfort in an environment where she feels restricted in voicing her opinions on matters concerning the Black community.
Upon joining the show, Amanda faced significant pushback from certain segments of the audience due to her distinctiveness from the other co-hosts, particularly her outspokenness on racial issues. Nonetheless, her presence on the show was undeniably significant, especially given the current societal climate. Amanda contributed greatly to elevating discussions on the panel and encouraged her peers to address race and social issues more boldly.
Despite her positive impact, Amanda garnered criticism from some viewers for various reasons. Some perceived her facial expressions as rude during discussions with fellow co-hosts, while others believed she was at odds with certain members, including attempts to stir conflict between her and Jeannie.
You and Jeannie have had a few disagreements in the past, but it’s important to clarify that it’s not about butting heads; it’s about differing opinions. At a table with diverse women, it’s crucial to distinguish between having a different viewpoint and outright conflict. Just because someone is looking up and listening doesn’t mean they don’t care or are disengaged. People often misconstrue situations to fit their own narrative, but in reality, it’s about actively participating and listening to each other respectfully.
As evident, Amanda found herself in a position where she had to confront her critics due to the substantial amount of criticism she received. Moreover, many fans of the show, particularly those who are white, felt uneasy whenever Amanda Sills broached topics related to race. Amanda is notably outspoken about issues concerning the Black community, a subject close to her heart. However, when she shed light on these matters, it seemed to unsettle certain individuals, although the reasons behind this remain unclear to me. It’s plausible that Amanda may have engaged in discussions with the show’s executives about this matter. They may have discreetly advised her to refrain from delving too deeply into such topics, citing viewer discomfort. While I cannot confirm whether this conversation actually took place, it’s conceivable that they approached her with such guidance.
Despite being hosted by women of color, “The Real” has never been known for addressing controversial or sensitive issues. They chose not to post about the ‘mad are buried’ discussion on their YouTube page due to its sensitivity and the potential backlash from viewers. Recently, a video emerged depicting the tragic death of 25-year-old Ahmad Arbery in Georgia. The footage shows him being fatally shot by two white men who confronted him while he was jogging in their neighborhood. This horrific incident underscores the reality of racial injustice, prompting discussions about race and social issues.
The discussion that the Real never aired on their YouTube channel suggests a cautious approach toward certain topics, indicating their sensitivity to contentious issues. Unlike The View, which delves into weighty matters, The Real has typically maintained a lighter tone. However, Amanda’s appearance on the show brought about a noticeable shift, prompting a deeper engagement with social issues and challenging her fellow hosts to be more outspoken. While her advocacy was commendable, it wasn’t universally embraced by the show’s fanbase, leading to incessant criticism and bullying. Ultimately, it seems that Amanda grew weary of navigating these dynamics: the pressure from higher-ups to conform and the backlash from fans whenever she broached topics close to her heart. Consequently, she chose not to renew her contract.
Yes, she’s here. I’ve joined her because my contract with the company has ended, and I chose not to renew it. It didn’t sit well with my conscience to remain in an environment where I couldn’t communicate with my colleagues in the way they deserve, and where disrespectful behavior towards me was left unaddressed. I found myself unable to fully express myself as a Black woman, and it wasn’t conducive to an environment where all voices, especially those of Black individuals, are valued and respected at the highest levels.
You know, there comes a point, especially when dealing with Hollywood in general, where you’ve seen my transformation into a mode of functioning that’s quite different from before. They say, “Amanda, you should have your own show.” I envision a show titled “The Big C.” If I were to create a show, it would be called “The Big Seals.” I’d only talk excessively, never really get to the point, with characters that always have braces on. Oh, and it would be deeply rooted in acknowledging my indigenous heritage, understanding that a key aspect of my connection with Brandon, which has remained strong since 1998 when we met on January 5th, 1999, is our shared mindset as artists. We both believe that whatever we create should fulfill two fundamental purposes: nourish our creative spirits and provoke social change. It’s essential for everyone to identify their guiding principles in life. Many of us work solely for survival, but there’s a certain privilege in not having to do so. I wake up every morning grateful for having crafted a life where I don’t have to chase money at any cost. I’m confident that I’ll find sustenance in a way that aligns with my values.
In the video, Amanda clarified that she chose not to renew her contract and emphasized that financial pressure wasn’t a motivating factor in remaining on a platform that didn’t align with her values. She subtly suggested that someone behind the scenes had spoken disparagingly about her without repercussions, contributing to her decision not to return. Hopefully, she’ll delve deeper into this on her podcast “Small Doses.”
However, there’s speculation among some that Amanda may have been terminated rather than leaving voluntarily. On the Neighborhood Top Two Instagram page, Amanda responded to comments, humorously reflecting on a particular moment and indicating it was a pivotal point for her.
One commenter mentioned having a three-year contract but being fired, prompting Amanda’s response. She expressed frustration at the tendency of some people to cast shade on strangers and discuss matters they don’t understand. She urged the commenter to get vaccinated while correcting their misinformation. Amanda lamented how societal conditioning leads many to doubt straightforward statements, preferring to create alternative narratives. She emphasized her commitment to honesty and gratitude for those who support her authenticity.
Amanda’s reaction reflects her disillusionment with the insincerity prevalent in Hollywood and her desire to distance herself from it. While acknowledging her contributions to the show, the commenter believes Amanda would thrive better elsewhere, given her inclination to address real issues candidly, especially those concerning the Black community. They wish her success in future endeavors and extend well wishes to the other hosts.
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