New Shows Struggle To Address Race Relations

Race relations are taking a starring role in several new culturally-tinged series this fall. Fox's "K-Ville," ABC's "Cavemen," CBS' "Cane," and the CW's "Aliens in America" and "Life Is Wild" couldn't be more different in incorporating cultural flavor. "Cane" examines the criminal dealings of a loving Cuban family, while "Aliens in America" is a satirical look at the prejudice that greets the arrival of a Pakistani student in a small town. "Life Is Wild" follows a white family that moves to Africa.

And "Cavemen," which premieres tonight, has been labeled by network President Stephen McPherson and ABC's marketing department as a funny commentary about race relations with a "new minority group."

In one respect, the new shows are different from series already on the air, such as "Grey's Anatomy," that take place in a "colorblind" world, in that they will confront race, cultural pride and conflict directly.

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