Keenen Ivory Wayans

In his three-hour Archive interview, Keenen Ivory Wayans talks about his career as a comedian, writer, and producer. He discusses growing up in New York City with his five brothers and five sisters, and describes honing his comedy skills at an early age. He explains what made him decide to leave college and move back to New York City to become a stand-up comedian at the Improv, and recalls getting his first big break on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. He tells of writing his first film script "Hollywood Shuffle," and shares what he learned from the experience. Wayans also talks about the cult-fave movie "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" and its short-lived TV spinoff. He then outlines his acting career and talks of his roles on For Love and Honor and Benson. He describes his relationship with Eddie Murphy and recounts writing/producing the documentary "Eddie Murphy Raw." He details his TV series In Living Color, explaining improv on the show, censorship, working with his family, and the program's legacy. He also comments on the inspiration for many of the In Living Color characters such as "Frenchie", "Homey the Clown", and "Men on Football." Amy Harrington conducted the interview on July 8, 2013 in Los Angeles, CA.