90s Black Sitcoms: A Revolution in American Comedy

90s Black Sitcoms Changed What America Found Funny

The 1990s brought a wave of groundbreaking television shows that highlighted Black comedians and significantly shaped American humor. Shows like Martin, In Living Color, and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air became instant classics. These beloved sitcoms are now examined in a new book that chronicles the rich history of Black comedy in America.

‘Black Out Loud’: A Deep Dive into Comedy’s Evolution

Jeff Bennett’s new book, Black Out Loud: The Revolutionary History of Black Comedy, From Vaudeville to 90s Sitcoms, explores this pivotal era. Bennett was inspired to write the book by a simple question: how did so many successful Black shows air at the same time in the 1990s?

He notes that the simultaneous existence of these shows was crucial. It meant that one show didn’t have to represent all Black experiences. The Fresh Prince showed an affluent family, while Martin offered pure comedic chaos. Living Single focused on professional Black women navigating life in Brooklyn. This variety allowed for authentic and specific storytelling.

The Business Behind the Breakthrough

Bennett interviewed key figures, including Barry Diller, the founder of the Fox Broadcasting Network. Diller explained that Fox needed to be different from established networks like NBC, ABC, and CBS, which offered similar sitcoms. This willingness to take creative risks opened the door for shows like In Living Color and Martin.

“When he looked across the landscape of primetime television at the time, NBC, ABC, and CBS were basically putting on indistinguishable sitcoms. And he knew that Fox had to be different. And that creative risk is what opened the door to In Living Color and to Martin and all those shows.”

‘In Living Color’: A Mirror for Black America

Bennett vividly recalls watching In Living Color as a child. He described it as feeling like being invited to a party he didn’t know he was waiting for. For the first time, he saw many Black faces on TV, being funny, free, and in control.

He wrote, “It was comedy that looked like my world.” This was important because, while Black people had been on TV before in shows like Good Times, the 90s brought Black showrunners and writers to the forefront. They created stories that felt authentic and true to Black experiences.

These shows served as mirrors for Black viewers, allowing them to see themselves reflected on screen. For others, they acted as windows, offering glimpses into lives and experiences they might not have otherwise encountered. This made the shows culturally resonant and relatable.

The Enduring Magic of 90s Comedy

The book explores why these shows still hold up so well today. Bennett points to the high standards set by the creators and writers. Keenan Ivory Wayans, for example, ran the writers’ room for In Living Color with a strict rule: only what made him laugh would make it onto the show.

Many writers also brought experience from other successful shows, leading to a cross-pollination of ideas and talent. This dedication to quality and authentic storytelling ensured that these comedies had a lasting impact.

Richard Pryor: The Godfather of Modern Comedy

When asked about the most influential Black comedian of the 20th century, Bennett names Richard Pryor. Before Pryor, comedy was often observational and safe. Pryor, however, bravely turned his vulnerability and raw life experiences into his act.

He started as a clean comic, like Bill Cosby, who was successful at the time. But Pryor found his own voice, pushing boundaries not just for Black comedians but for comedy in general. Many famous comedians today cite Pryor as a major influence.

A Favorite Moment and a Look Ahead

Bennett also shared a personal connection, revealing that he finally interviewed the comedian Sinbad for the book after years of trying. A recorded stand-up show by Sinbad from Morehouse College was a favorite of Bennett’s father, so much so that the VHS tape eventually wore out.

The book highlights how the comedies of the 90s were more than just entertainment; they were a cultural force. They reflected Black life with authenticity and humor, paving the way for future generations of comedians and storytellers. The legacy of these shows continues to influence comedy today.

Source: From the Fresh Prince to In Living Color: new book examines Black comedy (YouTube)