Racism "survives" on television

[BobcatJH]

Remember the bigoted, ill-fated ABC reality series "Welcome to the Neighboorhood", which, after protests, was pulled (potentially to appease Christians)? Or that Donald Trump was considering turning a season of "The Apprentice" into a battle of the races, only to face sharp criticism? Well, it looks like the people behind "Survivor" have decided to step up to the plate and fill the white-hooded void:

Some may call it exploiting racial tensions. CBS calls it darn good television.

Jeff Probst popped in on The Early Show Wednesday morning, confirming the reports that the 20 castaways for Survivor: Cook Islands will be grouped by race, with competitors divided into four tribes consisting of whites, blacks, Asians and Hispanics.

Apparently, "separate but equal" holds only the warmest of connotations for Mark Burnett.

Like a good host, Probst had nothing but praise for the producers' controversial brainchild, calling the exercise in segregation a valuable social experiment, rather than a stunt to dig up some controversy - and raise ratings.

While host Jeff Probst and show guru Mark Burnett so far only see positives, it didn't take long for the forces of hate to weigh in. Rush Limbaugh appears to be the first. He won't be the last.