
'The Richard Pryor Show' would be a short lived affair, running for only 4 episodes. Pryor wanted (and expected) complete creative control of his own show, but unfortunately that was not to be. His variety show truly was ground breaking in television, using comedy sketches, song and dance and monlogues to show front and centre to the TV audience the plight of the underdog, and some of the subject matter, especially to do with sex, was felt far too risque for the network, and so feeling shackled by their restraints, Pryor walked away from the program, with his respect in tact. The 4 shows are now on US DVD and are well worth owning. Some fantastic moments can be found. For instance, this amazing sketch featuring Maya Angelou. It begins with Pryor as Willie the drunk guy in a bar (Watch out for the late John Belushi as the bartender), then the scene changes to Willie getting home to his wife, played by Maya Angelou, and passing out. After a comical start, the scene suddenly becomes real and sober when Maya delivers a monologue (written by herself) to her husband which is both moving and extremely profound. Ms Angelou gives emotional weight which is quite impressive. A fabulous moment with two of my idols together on screen. Savour this gem...