african american comedy

Roundtable: African American comedy after 30 years of Bill Cosby

May 31, 2013 Carmen Russell Podcast, Race 00:14:37 0 Comments

It was May 20, 1983 when Bill Cosby took to the stage to share his ideas about marriage and family, children and parenting, and one memorable poorly behaved toddler on a plane.

“Himself” spawned a hit NBC series, a spinoff, books and even a knockoff cartoon black doctor dad who just never stopped giggling.

Host Jamila Bey spoke with Heywood Turnipseed, Jr., Ralph Cooper III and Steve Hill, a trio of African American comedians who are also fathers, to discuss the legacy of this classic comedy.

Part 1 :

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Part 2 :

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Photo Credit: George Doyle/Thinkstock.

Black Comedians ‘Laugh to Keep From Crying’ During Black History Month

January 31, 2013 Carmen Russell Culture 00:16:24 0 Comments

Friday marks the start of Black History Month in the United States and for African American comedians, it’s an opportunity to chronicle the history of this country through their comedy routines.

Host Jamila Bey spoke with comedian and writer Ralph Cooper about Black History Month, the old saying that one must “Laugh to keep from crying” and finding the kernel of humor amid one’s pain that has left a rich and substantial heritage of jokes.