The White Shadow (TV series)

The White Shadow was an American drama television series that aired on CBS from 1978 to 1981. It starred Ken Howard as Ken Reeves, a white former professional basketball player who takes a job coaching the basketball team at predominantly Black Carver High School in Los Angeles.

The series explored themes of race, poverty, and social issues prevalent in inner-city schools. Episodes often dealt with topical issues affecting the students, such as drug use, gang violence, pregnancy, and academic challenges.

The show was notable for its realistic portrayal of urban high school life and for featuring a predominantly African American cast of young actors playing the student basketball players. Many of these actors, including Thomas Carter, Kevin Hooks, and Eric Kilpatrick, went on to have successful careers in acting and directing.

Despite its critical acclaim and loyal following, "The White Shadow" was cancelled after three seasons. It remains a significant example of socially conscious television programming from the late 1970s.