One of the best things about Fox Network was the fact that they were the network of “In Living Color” We’re not exactly sure how the Wayans family managed to sell those studio executives on the idea; but, thank God somebody recognized a t.v. classic when they saw one. Dialogue, jokes and expressions from “In Living Color” became a part of urban culture. And when you think about the number of stars that came from that show, you can see that we’re still reaping the show’s benefits.
Wanda
They say save the best for last; but, I really can’t help myself. Wanda is by far my favorite character from the show. Long before Jamie Foxx showed us his depth and range as a legit Hollywood actor he made us laugh like no other by spreading his lips. I still don’t know how he managed to keep them peeled the entire time. His hideous looks, complete with the curly blonde wig, were made perfect with the ever-popular catch phrase, “I’m gon rock your world.”
Homey D. Clown
The tears of a clown expression did not apply to Homey. There was nothing sad about him. Dude was just angry for no reason. And instead of keeping that to himself or seeking help, he decided to work as a clown to make ends meet. What a perfect role model for the kids. We watched these skits with baited breath waiting for him to hit somebody up against the head.
Men on Film
When I watch Men on Film, I wonder if something like this would be shown on television today. This skit, full of homosexual stereotypes, had us dying laughing. Damon and David really and truly embraced their characters, though neither man is gay, you could have sworn they were in those 10 minute skits. The sexual innuendos, that ridiculous hat that Damon wore and the phrase “hated it” all made this skit a classic.
Kim Wayans as Oprah
Now we love us some Oprah, but our love for her, doesn’t mean she’s above ridicule. And even though Oprah later told Kim that those jokes hurt her feelings, it was clearly an exaggeration of the stuff that Oprah herself divulged on the show. Who didn’t know Oprah struggled with her weight? She told us! Art imitates life. Plus that bit where Kim balloons up before eventually exploding is hilarious!
Mr. Ugly Man
“In Living Color” had a way of making you feel like a jerk while you laughed your behind off. We all knew that Shabba Ranks wasn’t exactly Rico Suavé but after this skit we couldn’t even listen to the original “Mr Lover Man” without seeing Marlon’s face plastered up against that window.
David Allen Grier as Calhoun Tubbs
Calhoun Tubbs has contributed so much to our daily dialogue. How many times have you heard or you yourself have said, “Wrote a song about it. Wanna hear it? Here it Go.” Not only that, to this day I have a friend who says “aaahhh haaaa” when she thinks she’s made a salient point.
Tommy Davidson as MC Hammer
Tommy Davidson’s physical comedy is the best! You can tell he really commits to his characters in a way that will have you visualizing an entirely different person. This skit is no different. From those pants swallowing him up to Tommy hopping around on those chicken legs of his… comedy.
Oswald Bates-Booked on Phonics
We all know at least one somebody who likes to pretend like they know what they’re talking about; but end up sounding like a fool. This was Oswald Bates. He ran with his prison education and started doing the absolute most (and least) at the same time.
Hey Mon- Hedley
No one was safe when it came to this show. Including the Jamaicans… and in this case the Koreans too. The Hedley’s were a family who had 50 million jobs and occasionally spoke in rhyme. It’s a simple concept that translated into some very funny stuff.
Anton Jackson
Anton, yet another Damon Wayans character, was a thrifty homeless man. Claiming to be the secret love-child of Joe Jackson, Anton obviously feel on some hard times as he was living in a cardboard box. He never ceased to amaze us with the way he made do.
This is not it, what are some of your favorite “In Living Color” skits?
