Richard Pryor is one of the most acclaimed comedians in history. He starred and wrote TV shows and movies and was awarded rewards such as the Mark Twain Humor Prize—the first recipient of this annual prize. Now, the legendary comedian is getting the biopic treatment.
The biopic is set to be directed by Black-ish creator Kenya Barris and to be distributed by MGM. This will be the first feature film for Barris.
Talking to Variety, Barris claimed the power of Pryor’s comedy lays in his combination of truth, self-awareness, and even self-deprecation. “Pryor had a voice that was distinctly his and, in many ways, comedy since then has been derivative of what he created,” said Barris.
The movie will be executive produced by Adam Rosenberg and Renee Witt. The producers will be Tory Metzger and the widow of the late comedy-star, Jennifer Lee Pryor. Lee Pryor said she is excited to explore the mystery that is the genius of her late husband and claimed that Barris is perfect for the job. “Richard and Kenya are creative brothers,” she said.
This is at least the third attempt to make this biopic happen. Back in 2009, Eddie Murphy was considered for the part. In 2016 a movie directed by Lee Daniels and starring Kate Hudson was considered.
