Black Comedy in America

Episode 2

Def Comedy Jam

Russell Simmons and Stan Lathan fuse a hip-hop sensibility with cutting-edge comedy voices to create a groundbreaking franchise with enduring cultural impact.

Episode 3

70's Sitcoms

A wave of hit sitcoms like "The Jeffersons" bring Black family life and humor into the homes of Americans everywhere, with an influence that continues today.

Episode 4

The Best Man

The quintessential Black romantic comedy brings together a talented cast, a genre ripe for fresh voices, and perfect chemistry to inspire a rom-com boom.

Episode 5

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor blazes a trail that includes transformational appearances, addiction and tragedy, and a mix of pain and joy.

Episode 6

Eddie Murphy in the 80s

Eddie Murphy's story features his instant emergence as a force on SNL, his raw and boundary-pushing standup, and his rise to A-list movie star status.

Episode 7

Our Roots

The origin story of Black comedy includes slave tradition, the chitlin circuit, racial stereotypes, Jim Crow segregation on the road, and breakout triumphs.

Episode 8

The Fresh Prince

A fish-out-of-water sitcom proves to be the perfect vehicle for the talents, personality, and charisma of Will Smith, setting him on a course for superstardom.

Episode 9

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart overcomes a series of early setbacks and hones his comedic voice to become one of the biggest comedians and movie stars in Hollywood.

Episode 10

Dave Chappelle

Dave Chappelle's uncompromising comic voice and vision fuel his ascent to major success, even in the face of controversy and changing cultural tides.