Kenya Barris Says Richard Pryor Biopic Is Now A 10-Part TV Series
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Kenya Barris has revealed that the Richard Pryor biopic he’s directing will be released as a television series.
Barris spoke with VarietyStudio during the Sundance Film Festival last week and gave an update as to what viewers can expect from the highly-anticipated project, which is currently in development. “It’s a 10-part, limited biographical series that takes a look from cradle to grave,” the 49-year-old said of his focus on the iconic comedian’s life arc.
“From his earliest upbringing — he grew up in a ho house, or a house of ill repute — and became, at one point, the biggest star in the world.”
Barris spoke on his personal connection to the project, deeming it his “baby” while referring to Pryor as his “comedy god.” He also touched on Pryor’s impact and influence on other comedic greats, and how he helped pioneer a brand of humor that continues to resonate decades later.
“A super flawed guy, but who everything, to this day, the comedy that we remember — even including [Dave] Chappelle — is derivative of what he started. That honest, reflecting, observational look at what the world is and the differences between us that actually make us more similar than we are apart.”
The California native continued, adding “I think telling his story and letting people see things that they didn’t know about him is something that I’m super excited to bring to life.”
In addition to new details regarding Barris’ Richard Pryor biopic, the Black-ish creator also discussed two other projects he’s currently working on. The 49-year-old shared the plot behind his forthcoming adaption of The Wizard of Oz, which he says will be set in Los Angeles and star a POC in the leading role. Barris also spoke on his remake of the 1946 film It’s a Wonderful Life, which will also be told from a POC perspective.
On Friday (Jan. 26), the Barris-produced film The Underdoggs will be released via Amazon MGM Studios as a Prime Video exclusive. The film features a cast including Snoop Dogg, Tika Sumpter, Andrew Schulz, Mike Epps, and George Lopez.
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