The Rise, Fall & Rebirth of Detroit | Abandoned (Full Episode)

[@jaywilliams2408]

Anyone that watched this episode learned that Detroit’s greatest asset is its people. Everyone that was interviewed was well spoken and very optimistic for the city’s future. These are the people that are making Detroit a better place.

[@Stacia.01]

@@thatv8life186omg the woke aganeda, who cares about the people in detroit, its about buisness and capital!!!

[@johncam8420]

better than Toronto, everyone wants theirs over here, absolute shithole. Very jealous of Detroit as a Torontonian.

[@grayfox2618]

Isn't it the people that caused it to be the way that it is?

[@perfectallycromulent]

i live in Boston, we have plenty of well spoken and optimistic people. they got those in Denver, Atlanta, Austin, and every other city that's growing and thriving.

[@Black_unity597]

@grey What caused it is the white greedy men looking for bigger profits and slave labor they closed down the plants and that’s why it is the way it is! Boy I swear the comments section is where people show their racism! If anybody is wondering the state of America or is racism is a thing of the past all they have to do is come to the comments section and the bigots will come right out!

[@cooldudecrashlion]

As a lifelong Detroit resident, I loved this. Skating at the WIG everyday after school and seeing it alive again in this documentary was emotional. Thanks shining a light on my city Vice.

[@thisguy1920]

This was 2016

[@os2958]

@@thisguy1920 Yes and it's even more true and good today!

[@kevettenoel3207]

@@thisguy1920 says a guy with 1920 in his handle. Sheesh 🙄

[@thisguy1920]

@@kevettenoel3207 First that makes no sense second yt added that for reasons I’m not aware of. Why do you have 3207 on yours?

[@onlyxans6920]

is the wig still there? also are the vipers still a thing? i remember the memes going around about the founder years ago lol

[@MALogan-tc8sh]

As a Chicagoan with friends from Detroit from college, visiting it is a magical experience. There are no people in the world like Detroiters. Despite the ruin, I’ve had some GREAT times there. Even saw my first Bey concert there. Wishing everyone the best in this rebirth.

[@MALogan-tc8sh]

When he queued the song, I sang ‘But the money long as six mile brick mile knock..’

[@jonathanng138]

Then a basketball player comes rob you and gun you down

[@kenosabi]

Why yall always so f*ckin negative? Does it make you feel better? Do you post and feel like you've accomplished something for 30 seconds before running off to the next dumb thing that falls out of your c**k holster?

[@chrisbartolini1508]

@@jonathanng138Random acts of violence in Detroit are rare.

[@sim9373]

The BLACKS destroyed Detroit

[@public_grounds_tv]

This episode originally aired in 2016. Ford Motor Company has since rebuilt Michigan Central Station. They deserve credit for that. This was also one the best episodes of any show I’ve ever seen and played a part in my desire to buy the Public Grounds IP from its previous owner. Huge props to those all involved with his episode. It’s about time Vice put it out into the public domain.

[@soccerguy325]

Did it really?? Damn I'd love to see an update episode.

[@coreyf1204]

I was thinking, "why is Vice showing so much old footage?" These shots of Detroit are from over 5 years ago. A lot of what they showed looks completely different now: Midtown, Corktown, parts of Downtown, have much more redevelopment that has since been completed.

[@dettroitdominadora]

You can even see the cleanup and development happening into the neighborhoods now.

[@GivvyOfficial94]

If only vice could go back to doing good content

[@soccerguy325]

@@GivvyOfficial94 Lmfao you clearly do not watch enough VICE content then

[@joeknowshustle7210]

Michigan born and raised. I’ve traveled all over the country for work, and I’ve never been to a city with more spirit than Detroit.

[@evetteleonard5606]

More than New Orleans? Just curious.

[@onthatsiete]

😂😂😂😂 that place is a black hole wtf you talking about

[@nunyabidify]

Same! I proudly tell people Im from Detroit in boardrooms all over the world.

[@chriskozak7356]

Detroit and Philadelphia for me.

[@onthatsiete]

@@joeknowshustle7210 lmao Detroit has no spirt 😂😂😂😂

[@joephillip6514]

This abandoned series on vice is by far the best docu series they’ve done over the past couple of years. Quality cinematography and presentation by the host 👍👍👍

[@BrooklynBaby100]

One million percent agree…. This is from 2016… times changed since then sadly.

[@ToxicMetropolis]

I feel like VICE never earned the right to have that sweet intro about how they they acknowledge the problem with ruin porn, how these stories affect communities, etc. because this is basically what their whole model was all these years.

[@kylehenderson2718]

@@ToxicMetropolis Most "abandon porn" is just that - lurid pictures of ruins for people to gawk at for entertainment. I think what Rick and this series did was document the people that remain, how they still live, and most importantly how people are coming together to restore/rebuild/transform these areas. This isn't a vlogger driving around showing dilapidated buildings and addicts nodding out. The montage of people at the end of every episode showcases the HUMAN side of these neglected spaces - past, present, and future. Plus Rick fuckin rules, the cinematography rules, and the music rules.

[@FullSlamCunningham]

Unfortunately because it was old vice. Right before they went too far to one side.

[@0n3MindSpinning]

Detroits story is Americas story. I grew up in st.Louis and there’s a lot of similarities to Detroit. I’ll never understand how we as a people can become so disconnected and just forget about things and throw away the old for the new and soulless. Travel around the country and witness everything looking the same wherever you land. The monotony of the same businesses and building styles everywhere is as sad as the forgotten cities, towns, and communities 😢

[@Scriptorsilentum]

greed and television helped disconnect people. after all, meals were taken around a table, parents talking, an elderly third generation or two grand- telling of older times, kids listening, bonds being made and strengthened. most of the houses i've ever seen in detroit (hamtramck, certainly) easily accommodated three generations of family under one roof. then television came in, entertained us all but kids changed. marketing recognised the power of that medium. greed was always looking for a way in... i've driven through st. louis and detroit for years as a trucker and am always stunned to see entire apartment blocks with roofs caved in, windowless, trees growing out of them (!) and wondered where the hell did the people go? they were in such disrepair that no one wanted to live there? landlords couldn't - or wouldn't - maintain them? cars came along and it was easier to park in your own driveway in a suburban "development" than it was downtown. to get to the good paying jobs you needed a car - buses, streetcars, rail couldn't cut it (or city govts weren't interested in trying). the suburbs sucked the people from the centres. just a few thoughts.

[@aethulwulfvonstopphen8013]

Thats what happens when jay-ish people take over your country.

[@johnkeller5163]

Many cities do not resemble Detroit's problems whatsoever. Yes, many cities do have serious problems but, like Detroit, have horrible politicians that allowed corruption and rampant violence to destroy cities instead of honestly planning by bringing all citizens together.

[@PatrickLindemann22]

Couldn’t have said it better. The monotony drives me mad. I hate seeing things that had so much character replaced by shiny new ones that have none. I see it everywhere in America. Mom and pop shops replaced by big chains, pretty old homes replaced by cookie cutter apartment buildings, family restaurants replaced by another starbucks, etc etc. But that's what happens when your average person values comfort, convenience, and consumption over all else I suppose.

[@0n3MindSpinning]

@@johnkeller5163 I’m not here to argue, but great white flight, city abandonment, racial divide, and rampant unemployment due to industry moves is very common.

[@mrwink258]

I’ve lived my whole life here. Always rooting for the people and this place that I Love. Stay Strong Detroit ❤

[@jackshowering6528]

I'm from the UK and I love the buildings the red brick looks amazing! I hope everyone can get what they want in life!

[@Gino_567]

I'm on google maps right now taking a drive through your city and all I see it potential. You guys have some absolutely beautiful houses that are just begging to be renovated / repaired. There's beautiful, lush trees everywhere. People with mini farms and tractors. Everything is green. I hope you guys get up and running.

[@janelebenson1102]

I'm so proud to be born and raised in Detroit. ❤

[@oliviasooooksk]

Every time I’ve visited Detroit (3+ times the past year) I haven’t experienced anyone unhappy!! Everyone was kind, friendly and welcoming.

[@Richard-f7q]

Depends upon where you go.

[@oliviasooooksk]

@@Richard-f7q I believe that for sure

[@Nick-xk1qt]

This episode was from 2016, for anyone wondering about the WIG it was unfortunately demolished in September of 2019. What was built in the WIG’s place was just further gentrification of midtown with apartments for $2,200 a month. Exactly one of the issues they spoke about earlier in the video.

[@gimel77]

There's plenty of low income housing in the city. You want the city core to be nice, and for that to happen, you have to attract certain types of people. In order to do that, you have to charge higher rent. The people who can afford to pay the rent are generally more responsible and place value in something other than drugs and crime. It kind of seems people would rather it be a bombed out shell of its past than to actually have nice things.

[@CroatZg]

​@@gimel77 Lol well said!

[@kevinc8955]

@@gimel77Yeah I don’t think they want to build the community back. They want to somehow magically have an upper middle class area without any upper middle class living there because that means white people.

[@nickcosss]

Yeah i thought the same, they seem to be complaining about the devistation and the gentrification. Do they just want a bunch of rich black people to move there magically?

[@DefensisIndus]

This was breathtaking. Everyone from the elders to the youngsters in this episode were so kind, educated, and wise...

[@Metalmassacre07]

educated? high school diploma at the very best.

[@tennessee.tiger1988]

@@Metalmassacre07 You must be young. I'm college educated myself. Let me tell you, it has nothing to do with real world education.

[@DefensisIndus]

@@Metalmassacre07 This foo 😂 Okay, I'm sure a college diploma will most definitely bring success, but that doesn't always apply to every aspect of life 😂 Get out of your house, travel the world more, meet new people. Plenty of experience out there!

[@tannerpaisley-ve6dq]

@@Metalmassacre07 Agreed! Also it will be a dump as long as the people are the same.

[@miaouew]

stunning+brave™

[@MotownModels]

An FYI for people - this was made in 2016. So much has changed even since then - the city is a fantastic place to live and work.

[@mito88]

what is pushing this positive change?

[@MotownModels]

@@mito88 although the population hasn't gone up dramatically in the last 2 decades, I think it's a combination of younger people moving in and more job opportunities popping up. Plus a bunch of other nuanced things

[@scottthomson3575]

And a fantastic place to be murdered or robbed at gun point. Sorry, minority ran cities do not make it.

[@PancakeBoi]

i was noticing how alot of buildings and infrastructure wasn't there that should be

[@SphericalThinker]

@@mito88 L. Brooks Patterson died and the rest of the community is starting to realize that without a vibrant city, the suburbs are only going to grow so much. Auburn Hills and Macomb Township might be aesthetically-pleasant places to live, but no one's coming to the region to go to either of those bedroom communities, they want to come to the region to visit its principal city. Its time to let the past die, let old prejudices die, and time to move forward as a whole community instead of trying to build out farther and farther until we have "Detroit suburbs" either in Toledo, Flint, or Ann Arbor.

[@therealpoka]

Abandoned is without a doubt the best tv-series I've ever seen. The places. the editing, the music, Rick. Everything is just so perfect.

[@Zero.0ne.]

I agree. I really wish they would do another season with Rick and the same production team.

[@patrickohara7117]

Rt! It’s so good

[@bellabella9181]

A lot has changed in Detroit since this was made in 2016. I was there recently, downtown and the river walk is beautiful. The people are great. The city is passionate. I liked it a lot.

[@ryanvandy1615]

you wouldn't believe how much has changed since 2016. That city is ran so much better today, a literal night and day difference.

[@yo3rdtier128]

@yanvandy1615 … that’s a lie, drive down Grand river still blight everywhere. Go over on east 7 mile, same. Ok, downtown has made some improvements but it mainly looks the same just cleaned up and a bunch of new businesses with ridiculous high prices. Go to an event downtown pay $10 for a cup of beer. Park for $30 and a bag of peanuts $7. LMAO

[@Bonzi_Buddy]

You clowns are laughable. Detroit is still a crime-ridden cesspool.

[@dylanisntvibing]

I don't know if you'd call me a Detroit citizen (I live in Rochester Hills further north from downtown Detroit, but I have visited detroit many times) but to me, yeah it has changed. Some areas are still horrible and still reminiscent of the crumbling state of the city, but a lot of other areas have improved. I hope my city can further improve and move on from its massively devastating decline.

[@Bonzi_Buddy]

@@dylanisntvibing Give me a break. There are shootings and crime n those "tourist areas" that Detroit brags about as being nice. They're getting worse... it is a money pit with corrupt government and foolish bleeding hearts. Want to fix Detroit? You gotta get rid of the welfare class.

[@sosagecaserol6675]

So proud of Detroit from Scotland. My great uncle moved to Detroit in the early 1900s to work for Ford and settled in Detroit, I’m so happy to see it on the up again wonderful people in this video ❤👍

[@ComptonCrypto]

and he was probably one of the people that refused to work because their skin was darker than his

[@sosagecaserol6675]

@@ComptonCrypto he might have been and If so im very ashamed of that. I don’t know much about him other than he moved to Detroit and didn’t come back. Regardless I have so much love for the people of Detroit especially the black communities who suffered greatly and are now building Detroit back even better, stronger and fairer . From the outside looking in you all have a lot to be proud of

[@gingerseed123]

My grandmother grew up in Detroit, she had to move away for work and always dreamed of going back home. She cries about how everyone just forgot about Detroit and let it fall into ruin. I really hope I get to see Detroit thrive again

[@tannerpaisley-ve6dq]

The problem are the class of people. They will gradually destroy wherever they migrate to.

[@sukunawillstillwin]

@@tannerpaisley-ve6dqBlck community can only thrive if the undesirable parts are wiped away via eugenics

[@snowflakemelter7171]

​@@tannerpaisley-ve6dqBingo.

[@BrooklynBaby100]

@@tannerpaisley-ve6dqgreed sadly… but also makes sense why some if not most are not allowed access to the good things in life… they burn down all the good opportunities afforded to them.

[@utente1489]

You can thank the blacks for that

[@Verakhan]

Thanks for this series, and specifically this episode. I’m not currently a Detroit resident but work at the GM factory in Detroit. My grandparents were born and raised in Detroit. Growing up in a small farming community 5 hours north of Detroit and moving down for work since 2012 I can honestly say I love Detroit. Resiliency, drive, character, and so many other adjectives could be used. This place means so much to me. Keep it up on the Abandoned series.

[@NitroKlips]

One of the best series Vice has ever produced. I wonder how Rick's doing now. It would be sick if he could do a season 2 like 8 years later.

[@magesalmanac6424]

I haven’t binged a series like this in a long time.

[@MrMCDiggles]

Yea the Packard plant is in the process of being demolished and Michigan Central Building got bought by Ford. They are making it their HQ for their EV Department.

[@Saelenkmith]

skating as good as ever just saw him at a demo a few weeks ago

[@NitroKlips]

@@Saelenkmith at 47! Good man, still keeping it real.

[@gasNmudtv]

​@@MrMCDigglesonly part of the packard plant is being / has been torn down. Its still there just a shell of its self

[@billyLego4855]

From UK and I'm so happy to see Detriot pick itself up again. I love that❤❤❤❤

[@GruntmanG]

My first time in Detroit 15 years ago brought me to tears on the way in a taxi from the airport to a meeting in town to evaluate establishing new industry in Detroit. We didn't succeed :(. It brings tears to my eyes again to see Detroit reviving and positive attitudes spreading and the results from those whom for decades have fought to save their city. KUDOS !!!!

[@epicbluerat9999]

Nothing in this world has inspired me more than the resilience of the ones who stayed in Detroit and pushed through. Its why I have a special place in my heart for them. Love from chicago.

[@madelynmatulis4493]

My grandparents (91 and 85) lived in Detroit during its boom, they moved out once it started to fall. It was very interesting talking to my mom about what their view point on what happened was. I really hope Detroit continues in an upward direction, it’s such an amazing mix of culture and people from all walks of life

[@bingo8789]

White flight

[@louisthomaswest]

​@@bingo8789 I think you mean gentrification.

[@tressietes04]

@@louisthomaswest No, it started to fall when the whites left. Gentrification is when whites make communities safer and bring in businesses. White flight is when they leave and the community loses businesses and safety.

[@carcotasu081]

@@louisthomaswest Gentrification is when the whites start moving in

[@davidz3879]

@@louisthomaswest Decades of white flight. The gentrification is much newer & smaller.

[@brandoncardwell7271]

rick is my favorite vice reporter. he has a way to really uproot some feels but also make things light and happy and fun.

[@AdamEdward]

not to mention he's a badass skateboarder.

[@criminallettucewraps5207]

@@AdamEdward Yeah I was a little surprised to see that.

[@BottleBrassMonkey]

@@criminallettucewraps5207 He’s been a pro skater for almost 30 years

[@criminallettucewraps5207]

​@@BottleBrassMonkey jesus I didn't realize that was Rick McCrank. Thanks!

[@shakeel0atmeal273]

Brandon, yesterday I was rolling around when I got the shits and had to pull up into a gas station. The lid was dirty so I squatted over the bowl and MISSED. it landed on the seat 😮😮 I didn't know what to do and panicked and left. It was the only toilet in there 😮😮

[@ChristianRunsNY]

This has become one of my favorite series from Vice. Solid work as always sharing stories and opinions by people who don't often get to share their stories.

[@Kieleethecre8r]

Everyone in this is so passionate, well spoken, driven and proud. You can tell how much they truly love the people and places who raised them. As someone who is passionate about maintaining a strong sense of community in the town I’ve spent my whole life in this was so inspirational. After COVID it’s been harder to bring people together, so many people have gotten used to spending most their time at home but this video was a testament to the importance of human connection and compassion. I hope that they’ve continued to grow in the past 8 years since this aired

[@connarish]

the intro to this series always gives me big feels

[@markbeames7852]

Amen to that.

[@tinyupwardrockets]

Spacemen 3 - Hey Man

[@lil_lyrix]

It's obvious this is from 2016, cause since this video the city has changed a lot. Lots of new towers downtown, midtowns even more changed, and the Packard plant has been partially demolished by the city because the developer couldn't uphold their end of the deal. Not just that, but the large building that they filmed outside of at the start of the video when they were talking has been renovated and is opening within a year.

[@bayersbluebayoubioweapon8477]

And the skatepark’s gone.

[@johncam8420]

can you give links to updated images of detroit?

[@PatelPresh]

It does say it was aired in 2016, could be why it’s so obvious lol

[@forevergreat8660]

and the VIPERS training facility/warehouse is a night club now

[@ironknightgaming5706]

@@forevergreat8660 wow

[@JackBQuick79]

As a Michigan Native i have high hopes for Detroit. Its where all my childhood Heros played ball. I agree with turning some land into farms i feel like that could only benefit the residents in many different ways. Good luck Detroit, from Gran Rapids. Detroit needs more "Passion" both the amazing woman and the attitude. We can only go up from here.❤ The people of Detroit deserve their city back! ONE LOVE❤️🇺🇸

[@louisthomaswest]

Likewise. Detroit. B&R.

[@samsoniteman]

As a Michigan native too (Flint), I have high hopes for Detroit as well. Mostly because my mom refuses to leave there so I hope it can rebuild so she can be someplace safe, and because if Detroit can rise back up, that'll give a new hope to Flint.

[@amberthompson1596]

This series is so good. I watch every episode. Rick interviews the best residents and he is so talented speaking with people. He seems to put people at ease. VICE is legit.

[@MrRabson55]

From the UK snd planning to visit Detroit for the first time on my 70th birthday next year... A great present to myself!

[@UzumakiNaruto_]

Good luck to you. Just remember to lookup the safe and not so safe areas and always be aware of your surroundings.

[@brynmusselwhite481]

Detroit fascinates me, and every time I've left there I've felt the same about the spirit. What I always take from your Abandoned episodes is the sense of community you find, no matter where you go. Keep on keeping on!

[@nathansimpson5721]

I went to Detroit for the first time in December 2022. I went to a Lions game and Pistons game and they were both a ton of fun. The people were great

[@glenquagmire4340]

I went there yesterday and saw 2 people get shot. It's the people there that is keeping the place down. It's a culture of democrats. Its a dead city. Needs to be put out of its misery.

[@cc-dtv]

im going there in 20 days for my company's yearly powwow

[@louisthomaswest]

Yeah. We cool peeps.

[@bayersbluebayoubioweapon8477]

@@glenquagmire4340Bro I live in Detroit you did not come here

[@bayersbluebayoubioweapon8477]

@@cc-dtvwhat sort of music do you like? I can recommend some local venues

[@abluvjb]

I’m a born and raised Detroiter! ❤ This makes me so proud to see my community thriving in real time; just like how my mom and grandma have always talked about. We’re just a little rough around the edges, much love ✌🏽#313forlife

[@vedocapp]

One reason we decided to launch our app in Detroit was the community support. People are kind and polite to say the least!

[@SubliminalJ-Official]

Beautifully edited, Vice. Well done cheers from Canada. I’m 24 and a married man and this made me cry

[@tylerdavis_chs1168]

I wish Vice would bring this series (and Rick) back. They should do a Post-Pandemic version of Abandoned

[@JoshyByNature]

I recently hit up Detroit on my van life journey and was actually surprised how nice it was there. Nothing that I expected from the down talk of it across America for what seems like my entire life. Some really nice neighborhoods!

[@hannahwandoff4726]

Thank you for actually taking the time to talk about Detroit and it’s struggles and strengths ❤ most portrayals just show the bad parts but, it’s an amazing city with rich history and great people!

[@mayaliii]

😂😂😂😂

[@SkainzWorld]

The most beautiful thing to see is people working together for their common prosperity.

[@cammywesson-cohen305]

What a fascinating show. Thank you for showing the people who stayed and are working to bring back the city. I LOVE the spirit of these people.

[@gregdom2856]

As a eighties baby from the Bronx this reminds me of the burnt down Bronx era, Detroit I have y'all in my prayers 🙏🏽

[@ksmith9008]

As an architecture major at Detroit Mercy, I absolutely love this. This is a truly special city with some of the best people and we get too much bs. 313 ❤

[@dandiaz19934]

Just finished watching this w my wife who grew up in Metro Detroit. I would have liked to see more contextualization on the "come-back" aspect of it. The question of who this is a comeback for? How is it happening? What are the mechanics of gentrification? Which industries are attracting more people, if any? Etc.

[@koilamaoh4238]

Gentrification is more of a term for rich white urbanite liberals, when they bring their high wealth jobs in to town, in which they displace others and increase housing and rent prices, thus displacing people further back, sure it may improve upon that "area" but it also displaces people, in which those people of the area may not have a chance.. Kinda like a gated community like conservatives have to keep out any undesirables in a way, like they have in florida(there are rich white conservatives but not many makes the attempt, as they are more greedy, they are not likely to improve the town itself, instead keep it poor all together.); while the liberal version isnt gated but expensive as hell, like california parts, and you'll start seeing more homeless and drug addicts. I'm prety liberal but im not a fan of those "liberal" types.

[@laurynallen5600]

Detroiter here! Love my home, it’s literally something to do every weekend! With the activities being so vast anyone could find their rhythm with fun. Too, as I’ve grown older I’ve come to realize the beauty and distinctiveness of Detroit’s most prestige homes and buildings, aged and very telling architecture. Buildings that one may think is abandoned may not be if you do a bit of digging. Love to see first hand the Renaissance of Detroit.

[@MVinny24]

Detroit native checking in, and we are thriving more than ever, and will continue to grow, and there’s more love in this city than most people realize 💙

[@TopseyKrettz]

Born and raised.. I'll never leave! Something about the way of life here, the people in the community, the camaraderie, the changes, everything.. We strive to change, rebuild, improve everything we can for the better because we love Detroit and know this city has so much history, extraordinary value, sand potential. Especially if you're a multigenerational family who call this city home. Detroit has shaped me and I have an emotional attachment to this amazing place. When I think of this city, or try to relay in one word what this place is... I always use 2 words interchangeably history/memories...

[@elysianfields8461]

Agree! ❣️

[@nlomas]

As an Englishman I can't understand why people would want to erase a cities history. Rebuild yes, but honor the history because once it's gone there is no going back. Great interview with great people. Love the urban farms :)

[@oliverparker425]

As if England doesn’t work to erase Irish/Scottish/Welsh history

[@nlomas]

@@oliverparker425 thanks for noticing. We’ve been working hard to make sure no one knows the names of these countries. Still lots to do such as change our education system, documentaries, flags, people and culture but hopefully we’ll be done soon.

[@oliverparker425]

@@nlomas The problem is obviously more subtle than that

[@nlomas]

@@oliverparker425 you obviously never went to school here or understand anything about historical education and cultural promotion in the UK. We have issues with centralisation of political decision making but devolution and cultural promotion are improving not deteriorating.

[@cubatravelscouting2465]

Awesome report on Detroit! Kudos to the producers , cameraperson and host but most of all to the folks that are there in the ground doing the work for a better future of the city ! Greetings from LA, California

[@SphericalThinker]

Its funny because I was in Detroit's Mexicantown and I'm like "Is thisMexicantown or Boyle Heights?!"

[@bryan5213]

Awesome to see how resilient and determined people can be!

[@Seraphina_Atley]

I was just in Detroit today and in absolute wonder at the architecture, history, and friendly people. Detroit is definitely coming back!

[@GreyLambert]

WHOA ITS RICK MCCRANK! one of my favorite professional skateboarders growing up! surreal to see him here but a very welcome surprise

[@jacobtorok5617]

I am so proud to be a part of this city, movement, and community.

[@Urbextwosevens]

I absolutely loved this beautiful series. Im so glad its made it’s way to youtube.

[@IOSALive]

VICE, I liked this video because it's awesome!

[@Hey_Its_J_ay]

What a fantasitic video/documentary about Detroit. One of the bests I have ever seen on KZbin!

[@MPB059]

The first time I went to Detroit (2014), I instantly fell in love with the Motor City. The city has beautiful architecture, rich history and the Detroit River is so blue looking at when you see the Canadian side. I was also saddened that when the city went into that bankruptcy, I have never seen so many vacant buildings and high crime, I felt like I was in a post apocalyptic movie. But I’m so glad that Detroit is making a comeback and I want to go back there and help out the city!

[@sophiaisabelle027]

Detroit sure has interesting history behind it. There's not much I know about it, yet I'm suspiciously drawn to it.

[@bingo8789]

Don't be. You might be tempted to move here. This city is quietly moving in the right direction with BILLIONS being spent in the city yearly. 2010 until now has made steady progress. 10 years from now we don't want to be Atlanta or San Francisco or Dallas or Charlotte. Having new floods of people here isn't always a good thing.

[@louisthomaswest]

​@@bingo8789 It can also help Detroit's economy. You must know this.

[@weetodd]

@@bingo8789 From an ATL native I say Amen to that. My city has been wrecked by people from CA and the Northeast. They want to vote for liberals until it's too expensive to virtue signal anymore. All of the people that I know that have moved here from these areas will continue to vote for the people who are actively destroying America. Detroit prospered because it was based on traditional values. When the progressive democrats took over it failed. Period. Communism/Socialism/Marxism is slavery and ultimately genocide. 100M died under Maos' China and 100M died under Lenin/Stalin all in the 20th century. What's most amazing to me is that NO HISTORY PROFESSOR WILL ADDRESS THE GREATEST TRAGEDY of all time because it EXPOSES these ideologies for what they truly are.

[@jonathandudley6250]

@@bingo8789 It's going to happen regardless. If you don't build proper infrastructure now, once the rick assholes start moving in they will buy the politicians and you'll end up like Austin

[@bingo8789]

@chadclair2304 Detroit filed for bankruptcy over a decade ago. Largest bankruptcy filing in US history. This city has mismanaged funds since forever. Crooked politics and leaders can kill any city. But I have to give credit where it's due. We elected our first white mayor of Detroit in probably nearly 50 years. Detroit has been the blackest city in America since forever, UNTIL like this year. Memphis now has more black residents. People were skeptical about voting for our mayor but it was just something about him. Detroit likes blacks running the city for black people. But the man has done nothing but a wonderful job since hes taken office. Hes not perfectand the city still needs work but hes good. Hes turned detroit into a Tech powerhouse. Somethinglike Seattle. If we're lucky, like San Francisco. Big business are here and more are coming.I really don't see anyone running against & beating our mayor. He wins by large margins. Until he has a big blow-up or quits, he's the man. Happy fir the future. When people start talking about detroit too much. I like 🤫😄

[@michaelolson571]

I was in Michigan (2018) for a friends wedding and randomly got off the highway and started driving through Detroit and ran into the car plant. The amount of abandoned or missing homes in some neighborhoods was shocking. But other neighborhoods in or around the city were beautiful. Downtown seemed to be very lively and had food spots like shake shack, ect. Pockets. I hope the city keeps moving on the up and up.

[@jimmyheights5143]

Randomly getting of the highway and getting off in Detroit is like a 10 year vegan randomly and knowingly eating McDonald’s food. 😂😂 I wouldn’t dare go to any hood anymore.

[@os2958]

It was such a HUGE city. When the apartheid happened, not all neighborhoods could survive. Hopefully revival will spread.

[@sueyu3603]

Duh, like every majority black area is crap in every city across the USA/ world. They are not capable as a whole to keep up areas without help.

[@makaylacoggins3414]

Beautiful video. Definitely gonna watch the rest of the abandoned series now 👌🏼

[@im.anuragparida]

Such a beautiful documentary. It shows the resilience and vigour of the people to work hard and make the American Dream come true for communities. Vice has always been able to capture the emotions and the perseverance of the people to make things work.

[@DetroitNinja]

The Model T plant is not in Detroit. It's Highland Park to be exact.

[@guywill7875]

I am 66 years old. Born in 1957.I lived in a subdivision in Southfield called "Roseland Woods just off the Southfield Expressway and 8-mile and Nine Mile roads. All of the houses were built in the mid-1950s and were pretty much similar. A white neighborhood. There were no African-American Families living in Roseland Woods We had one of the few homes that was a custom-made home. I remember we went to Northland Shopping Center a lot and there were a lot of stores that catered to the more affluent suburban families. I remember on the other side of 8 Mile was Detroit. The homes were modest and the neighborhoods were all well-kept. I never thought the city of Detroit was anything but amazing in the early 1960's. We could ride the Woodward Conant Bus from Northland all the way downtown. I remember Belle Isle the Roosertail Nightclub. Fisher Theatre and Fox Theatre. The Pontchatrain and Saint Regis Hotels. Being from a well-to-do white family never really allowed us to experience the real Detroit. When I was out of high school we went to Greek Town and some other parts of the city that had a vibe. I remember Palmer Park and Indian Village. Detroit was an amazing city to me. I left Michigan in 1978 when Coleman Young was the mayor and Detroit was a shell of its former glory days. I went to the Art School behind the Detroit Institute of Arts with the Diego Rivera Murals. What this documentary sheds light on are to people of Detroit. Kind and grounded. I pray for the city I grew up outside of in the 1960's. its funny about being from Detroit. If anyone asks me where I am from I tell them. I hold up my left hand and point to where it is on my palm.

[@grjr1979]

This show is so good. I can’t believe I just found it.

[@oldguy-db1qk]

I started watching this series when my son sent me the link to the episode about St. Louis. I liked this episode about Detroit because it revealed a lot about America in general. What the Commander said about how things were for African Americans in Detroit is all across this nation. He said a mouth full and it was all truth. I grew up south of St. Louis in a small railroad town that had its own version of the urban plight. When I was a kid there were factories and businesses and I watched as my little home town died a relatively quick death. Everything shown about these cities in this series is everywhere across America. It's not just an urban issue. The story is the same! It's only in miniature form by comparison. Go into any small town across America and you will see lost industry, lost businesses, lost communities, Main streets with nothing there except empty buildings. And of course the ever present and ridiculous racism. America is a sad place anywhere you look. I agree that it is sad about St. Louis and Detroit and Cleveland but it is everywhere. The only way to change this is to come together as one people. Get rid of your racist views and your politics and unite. Because we all know how it ends if we remain divided.

[@kitstanford195]

What a wonderful and positive episode of a truly exceptional show. An example of the type of stories that can be told if people are willing to listen to a balanced picture

[@TheDJMel]

I know this series first aired in 2016 and I'm late to the game, but this series is one of my favorite things on the KZbin. It's so good. Salute to Rick!

[@tehutiboi]

Such an amazing episode!!! This is my favorite Vice series ever. Awesome job guys, quality!!!!

[@superquasigalaxygamer6297]

Man, it seems like almost everywhere you go, things are falling apart. But to see a city that's KNOWN for being riddled with crime, and just a terrible place to live in general, starting to finally come out of that, is amazing. It honestly gives me hope that someday the rest of the world can be like that too... God bless all the people from Detroit, I'm praying that soon you'll have your city back like it was, and even better 🙏❤

[@devontawhite]

I wish this episode would have showed some of the amazing neighborhoods that still exist in Detroit like Sherwood Forest, Indian Village, Boston-Edison District and many more. This represented just a part of the Detroit I grew up in.

[@jansen4282]

Really grown to love your abandoned series hope to see more!

[@scottbaillargeon3760]

Speaking as a Windsor, ON native from across the river. We are so proud to see Detroit, our nearest major city, on the come up.

[@kinkiesse7736]

Well, Windsor is part of the problem for Detroit. Windsor has been stealing jobs from Detroit for decades..

[@andybarnett5279]

SUCH a great episode! Thank you for making it...the people who participated in this with you are all amazing & there's clearly a shared love, resilience and commitment to seeing this re-birth thru. I can't wait to see what's next for Detroit with folks like these making their vision known. #onelove

[@Motownsports89]

I moved back to Michigan in 2020 for work and hadn't been in Detroit since 2005. The downtown area is so nice. Definitely a comeback city!!

[@hagard14]

I really like this interviewer. Self-aware and compassionate (no offence to other VICE staff). But his interactions are genuine, you know he's from good folk. Good job.

[@chcgostyle]

While a hard topic to swallow, it is really nice to see that even in the most delapatated neighborshoods, good people do exist. Social media spins one narrative, and thanks to VICE, you quietly displayed a real, yet unpopular narrative.... that people just want to do good and live in peace. Keep up the great work VICE!!! 🙂

[@brentduanefoster]

I’m pulling for cities like Detroit! We have cities and towns ALL OVER THIS country that have been abandoned and neglected that have so much potential for redevelopment and use.

[@Helm-w1q]

As some one who grew up on the outside edge of Detroits west side. I have interacted with the city all my life. Starting with my grandfather living on Van Dyke six blocks from the Detroit river. I as a white suberbanite have never been afraid to travel to Detroit and did so way back in the bad old days, and did it without fear. Today the city is so much better, that doesnt mean that it doesnt have its places that I wouldnt go, there is. Yet all big cities are like that. Today Detroit is slugging rats. Its improving slowly, but thats the best kind of improvment, better thought out, last longer. Its home. Ive never been ashamed of being from here.

[@kaiserkarl2]

So much positivity! Made me happy. We can all rise again!

[@evetteleonard5606]

This was a great episode. I loved the inner city perspective away from downtown. Go Detroit, I'm rooting for the complete revitalization of the city & I'll be visiting soon.

[@donnalawson6236]

The community starting to rise up, esp re the intended food desserts(as this is an issue world wide, & it’s intentional) it’s really heartening. In my country is the economically poorer areas that have the most fast food outlets, liquor & pokie machine outlets, no accident. It’s great to see people taking there city back, growing fresh food, it starts like this, organically, not by gentrification!!!

[@gheebuttersnaps2011]

The only reason there are no grocery stores in these areas is because the crime is too high. Criminals ran all the businesses away. My friend owns a grocery store in Detroit called sav mart. Last week they had a 6 inch steel door broken into and took the dte payment kiosk. That's where people could go to pay their electric bill. Now my friend won't replace it, because it will just be another target to break into his store. So no more payment machine. If you want to "take the city back" you have to get rid of the criminals and then and only then will businesses open to serve their community.

[@tlennon]

The food desert issue in Detroit is not intentional, it's due to the fact a big name store like Kroger or Meijer won't put in effort to run a store that will just end up operating at a loss. This is due to all the theft that goes on and why you only see independent grocers as they're the only ones willing to put up with the level of crap that comes with operating in those neighborhoods

[@este633]

while food deserts exist in detroit i think the term more fitting to what ur describing is a food swamp! typically food deserts exists within food swamps anyways, and both r genuine problems that can mcause a lot of damage to vulnerable communities .

[@magesalmanac6424]

What the difference? Food desert is when it’s a lack of good nutrition and fresh food. So what’s a good swamp

[@300adad]

I spent a couple years growing up in Detroit in the 2010s. There was something incredible about that inflection point. I remember someone organized a wedding for our family friends at one of the abandoned plants… you could never do that now, buy I suppose that’s a sign of good changes

[@jayshahrealestate]

This is video is aired so long ago, Detroit has changed massively since this video. Like couple of the buildings he shows are literally now occupied and redone and some of these spots are demolished like in the 2018-2022 time. This was filmed in 2016 when it has massively changed since then. 2018-2019 was the real start to the massive change in the city

[@jenelaina5665]

I was wondering...

[@jenelaina5665]

It's in the description but only when you expand. Smdh 7 years is a damn long time.

[@rustandcompany9682]

Train station is beautiful now.

[@DetroitKim]

It would be great to see a follow up story 8 years on to see the progress being made !

[@andrewb1337]

Just a couple minutes into it I was like "wait, when was this??" cause it looks so different now lol. A follow up is def needed!

[@sean45crooks]

This is the Vice I grew to love. I can’t believe I’m just seeing this now.

[@zmg5232]

I moved from Alaska to Detroit to be apart of something greater. I'm so happy and grateful to make the best decision of my life!!

[@f3s3n]

When it got to the part about the privatized security, I was not the only one thinking of of OCP and Robocop, right? LOL

[@ashelfishisttortle]

Definitely not the only one. If only people paid attention to what cyberpunk has been trying to warn us about.

[@NealFry]

I've Always been Proud of Detroit.

[@NealFry]

Imagine a Vice President Asking for Donations. What for?

[@NealFry]

Detroit AGAINST Everyone.

[@jwardbartolome]

I just wish VICE would make all of these videos available to watch in all regions.

[@AyyoShyGurlTv]

I cried when he said all the children used to sing the Temptations and now everything is gone.😢

[@RaptorFaceRumble]

When The Grand Tour did an episode of Detroit they mentioned a lot of this. Crazy to think it was one of the most populated and rich cities in America.

[@madreep]

I'm originally from Seattle. I grew up in what's known as the CD (Central District). My grandma bought the house I grew up in for 45,000 in the 60s. I looked it up on Zillow a couple of days ago and it's currently estimated to be worth 1.7 million. Million! That's ridiculous! It's just a house. Pretty small, no yard to speak of. When I could no longer afford to live in Seattle I moved to my mom's hometown of Portland, Oregon. Had my kids there, started my career. We were pushed out due to the rising cost of living two years ago. So I followed my mom and sisters to Phoenix. I can't afford it here either, and I can't afford to save to move somewhere else. I don't know where to go next. I hate gentrification. It hurts the people who have always lived in the area.

[@ayo623]

My family was pushed out of our hometown after 5 generations. I can't afford to buy anywhere within 400 miles. I don't know where to go either. Gentrification is so shitty.

[@Michael_Hunt]

Stop moving to large, well-known population centers would be a good start.

[@madreep]

@Michael_Hunt well I only moved to a large area a year and a half ago. I couldn't change where I was born and when my parents moved back to Portland I was a kid. Didn't have much of a choice there either.

[@tranquil14738]

Housing costs are so ridiculous I’m 21 and I don’t think I’m going to get to ever own a home

[@ayo623]

@tranquilcam13 I'm 15 years your senior with a college degree and several specialty certificates. I make 80K and still can't afford to buy a house.

[@Dzokhar]

I can't be the only Michigander watching this with pride. These people could be my neighbors and they're all this tenacious.

[@Macrae92]

That intro was amazing, this series is exactly what we want

[@justinocastillo5808]

I enjoyed this SO VERY MUCH. I've always been fascinated by Detroit, it's history, music, car plants, etc..

[@sphexes]

Great video as always. I'm from Toledo, OH and love to go all over Detroit to find new places to eat or explore. I've ridden my bicycle from Toledo through Detroit up to Macomb Co one day. I love it. Yes, it has a long way to go. Let's hope it can happen.

[@slaphappysmokey1]

There is so much history in that city. Hearing about areas trying to be rebranded by outsiders angers me. With the people who put their foot forward to make their neighborhoods like before? Mad props! These people that were interviewed are the ones with true heart and should be seen as an example of what you can do if you just put your ideas into play. Was I the only one who was wondering where the skating was going to be?

[@adoznuladodevet]

Rick McCrank >> the epitome of a journalist and the G.O.A.T. skater, yet humble and grounded. ❤️

[@raquel7569]

This series is amazing. Please keep making more!

[@midwestoutlaw3194]

This show is some of the most genuine informative entertaining content anywhere well done my man 👍👊

[@DennisMoore664]

With that closing montage I'm guessing this is the last one of these? What a wonderful series, I'd love to see more new shows made. 2026 is just a few years too so they could re-visit some of these places. Just always sad to see a good thing end, but that's life. Loved that line at 38:48 - "So this is the reason why everybody has too much stuff"🤣 Thanks Vice. Good luck with the new owners.