Richard Pryor back in the dayAnother entry for the “Damn I'm Old” file. I actually remember first paying attention to Richard Pryor on the old Flip Wilson Show. According to RichardPryor.com, that would have been in 1973. (heavy sigh)
My buddy Vlad pointed me to the sad news of Richard Pryor's death earlier today. Since Heaven has always laid claim to his autobiographical movie Jo Jo Dancer being her favorite movie, I told her right away. Her response; “I thought he died a long time ago”. Then again, I suppose it's not so surprising given that it's been nearly 20 years since he was diagnosed with MS, and by far, Pryor's best stuff came before that. He hasn't been in public much these last few years, and when he was, it was tough to see him -- at least for me anyway.
Pryor was one of my all-time favorite comedians. Lots of people focused on the language he used during his performances, but to me that wasn't an issue. What amazed me was how honest and open he was with a microphone in his hand. He'd talk about his life, his fears, and his failings; yet all the while making you laugh continuously.
By far his best mainstream works were his live performance movies. None of the more conventional movies he made ever really did much for me. It's too bad. I really wanted him to succeed on the big screen too.
I suppose both I and Cox Cable owe Richard Pryor many thanks. I credit Pryor's humor as a significant reason I spent the money I did on premium cable back in the 80's. Using those newfangled VHS tape machines, I'd built up a pretty dense comedy library of unedited HBO/Showtime appearances back then. They certainly served heavy duty helping entertain many an after-hours visitor while I was in my twenties. I can't even guess how many times I watched Richard Pryor over a night cap. (again, heavy sigh)
I'll miss ya Mudhen...
tags: richardpryor, comedy