In a recent interview with Big Boy's Neighborhood, comedian and actor Marlon Wayans addresses the issue of tearing each other down within the Black community in relation to wearing dresses in comedy.
Around the 30-minute mark, Wayans expresses his frustration with the double standard that exists, highlighting how white actors are celebrated for wearing dresses in comedic roles, while Black actors are criticized. Wayans argues that comedy should be embraced in all its forms and that different shades of Black comedy should be celebrated.
Wayans emphasizes the importance of minorities coming together and supporting one another instead of dragging each other down. He believes that the toxic culture of tearing each other down needs to be left behind. Wayans mentions prominent comedians like Flip Wilson and Tyler Perry donning dresses for roles, and Marlon believes that comedy is an art form that should be celebrated and that there should be no limits on the type of humor embraced.
Wayans also discusses his personal journey as a comedian and actor, mentioning how he took criticism from fellow comedian Katt Williams about his early career. Rather than taking offense to Katt saying he wasn't "a real comedian," Wayans used it as motivation to improve himself and become a better comedian. He recognized that he needed to put in the work and went on to do specials and go on the road in order to refine his comedy skills.
The interview also touches on the topic of joke stealing in comedy. Wayans admits that he has had jokes stolen from him but claims that it doesn't bother him because he focuses on his own growth as a writer. He believes that by writing from his own unique experiences, his comedy cannot be easily replicated. You can listen in full above.
Source: Youtube
