The Life of Pioneering Comedian Paul Mooney
Curated by
cdteliot
3 min read
8,265
Paul Mooney, the influential comedian, writer, and actor known for his biting social commentary and collaborations with Richard Pryor, passed away on May 19, 2021 at the age of 79. Over his nearly 60-year career, Mooney left an indelible mark on the world of comedy while fearlessly addressing issues of race and racism in America.
Mooney's Collaborations with Richard Pryor
abc3340.com
Paul Mooney and Richard Pryor formed one of the most influential comedy partnerships, collaborating extensively throughout the 1970s and 1980s. After first meeting in 1968, they went on to write episodes of the sitcom Sanford and Son together when there were few Black television writers.
1
2
Mooney served as the head writer on The Richard Pryor Show in 1977 and co-wrote material for Pryor's groundbreaking comedy albums and films, including ...Is It Something I Said? (1975), Bicentennial Nigger (1976), Live on the Sunset Strip (1982), and Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling (1986).3
2
Mooney famously penned the edgy word association sketch with Chevy Chase for Pryor's 1975 Saturday Night Live appearance, which became one of the show's most iconic moments.4
1
2
Their partnership lasted until Pryor's death in 2005. Mooney later chronicled their relationship in his 2007 memoir Black Is the New White, noting "Even though I have a feeling that sooner or later it's all going to crash, I still accept Richard's friendship. He is irresistible."5
5 sources
Mooney's Impact on African-American Comedy
Vince Bucci
·
gettyimages.comPaul Mooney had a profound impact on African-American comedy. His fearless and incisive social commentary paved the way for future generations of black comedians to unapologetically address issues of race and racism.
1
2
Mooney's comedy was rooted in the long tradition of African-Americans using humor as a coping mechanism to deal with oppression and injustice.3
By boldly confronting uncomfortable truths about the black experience in America, he expanded the boundaries of what black comedians could say on stage and screen.1
4
Mooney's influence can be seen in the work of comedians like Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, and W. Kamau Bell, who have continued in his footsteps of using comedy as a powerful tool for social critique and change.5
5 sources
BET Comedy Awards Controversy
wikiwand.com
Paul Mooney's controversial performance at the 2005 BET Comedy Awards exemplified his uncompromising approach to comedy and social commentary. During the segment titled "Black People Wake Up Call Award," Mooney targeted African American celebrities he felt had distanced themselves from their racial identity, including Michael Jackson, Oprah Winfrey, and Diana Ross. His jokes about Ross's 2002 DUI arrest and the death of her ex-husband reportedly offended Ross's daughter Tracee Ellis Ross, who was in attendance.
When questioned about the controversial nature of his performance, Mooney remained unapologetic, defending his right to critique celebrities and pointing out what he perceived as a double standard in the scrutiny of black comedians compared to their white counterparts. This incident highlighted Mooney's fearless approach to comedy, his willingness to challenge societal norms, and his commitment to addressing racial issues, even when it meant facing backlash or censorship. The controversy surrounding this performance underscores the provocative nature of Mooney's comedy and his role as a polarizing figure in the entertainment industry.
Paul Mooney's Memoir: Black Is The New White
amazon.com
Paul Mooney's 2009 memoir Black Is the New White provides an intimate and revealing look at his life story and decades-long comedy career. In the book, Mooney recounts meeting Richard Pryor in 1968 and the beginning of their fruitful yet tumultuous partnership.
1
2
He shares candid stories about helping Pryor write his groundbreaking comedy albums and the highs and lows of their time working together.1
3
Mooney also reflects on his own winding path in the entertainment industry, from his early days as a circus ringmaster to becoming the first Black writer for Saturday Night Live in 1975.1
4
He details his notorious behind-the-scenes moments, like organizing a performers' strike at The Comedy Store and publicly giving up using the n-word in his act after Michael Richards' onstage outburst in 2006.2
Throughout the memoir, Mooney's uncompromising comedic voice shines through as he shares uncensored opinions on race, politics, and show business.1
2
By chronicling both his triumphs and tribulations, Black Is the New White offers a rare glimpse into the man behind the biting social commentary. Mooney's autobiography serves as a testament to his comedic legacy and his lifelong commitment to challenging societal norms and telling the unvarnished truth.3
4 sources
Related
what are some of the most memorable stories paul mooney shares in "black is the new white"
how does paul mooney's autobiography paint a picture of his life and career
what are some of the most personal details paul mooney shares in "black is the new white"
Keep Reading
Dick Van Dyke’s Legacy
Dick Van Dyke is an American actor, comedian, singer, and dancer whose remarkable career has spanned over seven decades in film, television, and stage. With his winning smile, fearless physicality, and affable manner, Van Dyke has charmed audiences and become one of the most beloved entertainers in American history.
19,811
The Career of Comedic Legend Tim Conway
Tim Conway was a beloved American comedian and actor best known for his roles on the TV shows McHale's Navy and The Carol Burnett Show. Over his long and successful career, he won numerous accolades including five Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for his comedic performances.
15,730
The Life of Comedy Legend Larry David
Larry David, the acclaimed comedian and co-creator of the iconic sitcom Seinfeld, has carved a unique path in the entertainment industry with his uncompromising comedic vision and penchant for mining humor from the mundane.
8,300
Genius Comedian Mike Myers' Career Highlights
Mike Myers, born on May 25, 1963, in Scarborough, Ontario, is a renowned Canadian-American actor, comedian, and filmmaker known for his versatile comedic performances and iconic characters. According to his IMDb biography, Myers rose to fame as a cast member on "Saturday Night Live" and went on to star in popular film franchises such as "Wayne's World," "Austin Powers," and "Shrek."
6,584