Black Out Loud: A Conversation with Geoff Bennett

Geoff Bennett (photo credit: Johnny Shryock)
Geoff Bennett (photo credit: Johnny Shryock)

Date: Friday, Oct 9, 2026

Start time: 3 p.m.

End time: 4 p.m.

Location: STEM Building (817 W. Broad St.), room 216

Join VCU's College of Humanities and Sciences for a conversation with Geoff Bennett, the co-anchor and co-managing editor of the PBS NewsHour. Bennett will discuss his book "Black Out Loud: The Revolutionary History of Black Comedy from Vaudeville to '90s Sitcoms," in which he chronicles the transformative history of Black comedy in America, drawing on research and interviews with the actors and executives behind some of the most impactful shows. This exploration traces the evolution of Black comics and provocateurs who reshaped the culture and ultimately became powerful agents of social change -- transforming the way America laughed along the way. A Peabody Award-winning journalist, Bennett has reported on national politics at the highest levels — covering the White House and six presidential election cycles — while conducting exclusive interviews with cultural icons, world leaders, and groundbreaking artists. His work bridges politics and culture, offering clear-eyed insight into the forces that shape American life.

The event is followed by a reception.

Registration forthcoming.

Event contact: College of Humanities and Sciences, chs@vcu.edu