Black Comedy in America, is a new docuseries that explores the impact of Black comedy on American culture over the past century. The series will feature prominent figures such as Will Smith, Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Anthony Anderson, Marlon Wayans, Tiffany Haddish, and more.
Black Comedy In America explores the comedic pioneers of film, television, and the standup scene, along with the humble beginnings and meteoric rises of the most powerful voices ever entering Black comedy. The series also delves into the cultural impact of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, The Best Man, Def Comedy Jam, the wave of memorable Black sitcoms from the 70s, and influential household names such as Richard Pryor and Dave Chappelle. In addition, the show features a raw exploration of Jim Crow segregation with a nostalgic look at the foundations of the Chitlin’ Circuit, where Black comedy got its roots.
Produced by SMAC Productions and Haddish’s She Ready Productions, the 10-episode series brings together icons and respected figures for deep dives into what and who have shaped comedy culture over the past century.
The premiere begins with a rare sit-down reunion with The Original Kings of Comedy: Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer and D.L. Hughley.
Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, and the late Bernie Mac joined forces nearly 20 years ago to make comedy magic and launch their careers into the stratosphere.
The Original Kings of Comedy is a 2000 American stand-up comedy film directed by Spike Lee and featuring the comedy routines of Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, and Bernie Mac. Filmed in front of a live audience at the Charlotte Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina, the comedians give the audience their views about African-American culture, race relations, religion, and family.
The film was produced by MTV Productions and Latham Entertainment, and was distributed by Paramount Pictures. It was shot over the last two nights (February 26 and 27, 2000) of the Kings of Comedy tour with Harvey, Hughley, Cedric, and Mac. The show is intercut with footage of the comedians backstage, promoting the show on the radio, at the hotel, and during a basketball game. It was a critical and commercial success. The film’s popularity led to multiple spin-off films.
