Larry Wilmore

In his three-and-a-half-hour interview, Larry Wilmore talks about his early years, developing his stand-up routine, and doing improv. He describes early shows he auditioned for or appeared on, including a.k.a. Pablo and The Facts of Life, as well as appearing on Stand Up Spotlight, and writing for Into the Night. He recounts his time as a writer on In Living Color, and eventually being nominated for an Emmy for that show. He chronicles writing for several shows including Sister, Sister, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and The Jamie Foxx Show, as well as co-creating the animated Eddie Murphy series The PJs. He recalls creating The Bernie Mac Show, and details why he considers it to be his greatest career achievement. Wilmore discusses being hired as a writer and correspondent for The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, which eventually led to his producing and hosting The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore. He speaks of his time hosting that show, finding his voice, its focus on African American and feminist topics, and finally its cancellation. He talks about hosting President Barack Obama’s final White House Correspondents' Dinner, and the controversy that ensued. He concludes by discussing his writing and producing process, and what he may have in store in the then-future. Jenni Matz conducted the interview in a joint venture with the Writers Guild Foundation on May 9, 2017 in North Hollywood, CA.