The Reality of Black Women
Image. Influence. Intersectionality.
Welcome to The Reality of Black Women, a digital companion to Talani Stiff's graduate research exploring how Black women have shaped, and been shaped by, reality television. This site highlights the intersection of race, gender, culture, and commerce, honoring the labor and legacy of Black women in the Real Housewives franchise.
Meet the Icons
Nene Leakes
Kenya Moore
Kandi Burruss
Dr. Wendy Osefo
Candiace Dillard Bassett
About the Project
“Reality of Black Women – Image, Influence & Intersectionality in the Digital Age” is more than a paper—it’s a cultural analysis, marketing critique, and academic response to the ways reality television exploits, edits, and elevates Black women. Grounded in Black feminist theory, this project examines the roles of iconic cast members from The Real Housewives franchise and the lasting impact of their portrayals on media, society, and identity.
Curious about the inspiration, the research, and the mind behind the message?