The History of White People in America was a series of 30-minute mockumentary-style vignettes, first broadcast on American television Cinemax beginning in 1985, and later re-edited for home video release.
Martin Mull plays a reporter after the fashion of 60 Minutes investigative TV journalism, interviewing participants as well as providing narration or commentary directly into the camera.
[citation needed] The series begins with introductory "testimonials" by Steve Martin, Teri Garr, and Bob Eubanks, who explain what being white means to them.
Mull as the narrator then discusses how recent films and television shows have celebrated ethnic diversity, but none have covered white people.
Highlights include the Harrisons hosting a backyard barbecue and interacting with their neighbors, all of whom are equally average, white, and fond of mayonnaise.
[citation needed] The Harrisons are shown reacting to appearing on television in Part One, with Mull explaining how "getting in touch" with their whiteness has changed them.