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Veteran TV presenter Angellica Bell receives outpouring of support after getting emotional while questioning her impact on Black viewers



VETERAN TV presenter Angellica Bell has opened up about her feelings regarding representation during her early career, particularly during her time at CBBC.


In a heartfelt conversation with Fleur East on Hits Radio, Bell expressed regret, stating she “didn’t do enough” for Black viewers in her heyday. This candid admission resonated with many, leading to an outpouring of support on social media.


Angelica Bell first rose to prominence as a presenter on CBBC, where she became one of the few Black women in prime-time television. 


Starting her career in 2002, she captivated audiences with her vibrant personality and ability to connect with young viewers. Bell hosted several popular shows, including "Bamzooki," where children could create their own Zookeeping characters and interact with them in a unique virtual environment.


Her role at CBBC was significant, not only for her talent but also for the representation she brought to a platform. Bell became a role model for many young Black viewers, even if she sometimes felt she fell short of fully embracing that responsibility.


During her recent interview with East, Bell recalled a poignant moment when a viewer told her, “You were my childhood,” which prompted her to reflect deeply on her impact. She admitted, “I didn’t realise the impact of being on CBBC at that time… I’m grateful for those experiences, and maybe the tough times I went through when I was trying to work out who I was, maybe it was worth it.”


East acknowledged the significance of Bell's presence on television, noting that she had previously shared her discomfort with wearing braids early in her career. “For all of the Black kids watching you on TV, you just gave people hope,” Fleur stated. She emphasised that if Bell had seen more representation herself, she might have stepped into her identity sooner.


In a moment of vulnerability, Bell reflected, “Sometimes I think I failed. Sometimes I think I haven’t done enough.”


The conversation struck a chord with many listeners, leading to a flood of messages on Twitter, where fans and fellow media personalities offered words of encouragement and gratitude. @Lorna_TVeditor wrote, “@angellicabell, you are an outstanding presenter who has inspired so many to follow in your footsteps. You are admired and adored - and so is your husband.”


Another supporter, @fufuisonme, shared, “I literally love this woman @angellicabell. I can count the amount of TV presenters I remember by name! Seeing her on screen is literally one of the highlights of my childhood. Thank you for making space for so many Black children.”


@CtRLsMaNkYLOL added, “She was an inspiration for me and my kids. She's done more than enough. Representation MATTERS!! This made me a bit sad to see her getting upset like that.”


Writer @ronkelawal poignantly remarked, “For someone as incredible as Angellica Bell to think that she has somehow failed is a reflection of this country's failings, not hers. The social climate of this country will convince a talented and confident Black woman that she is not enough when she is, in fact, magnificent.”


Bell’s candid remarks highlight an ongoing discussion within the media about the importance of representation, particularly in children's programming. As society becomes increasingly aware of the need for diverse voices and stories, Bell's reflections serve as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with being in the public eye.

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