Marlon Wayans, well-known for his comedic flair, has expressed a keen interest in pursuing more family collaborations, even though reviving the iconic sketch show “In Living Color” is not on the horizon. The 52-year-old comedian recently joined his brother Damon Wayans Sr. to promote Damon’s new CBS series, “Poppa’s House.” During this discussion with PEOPLE, Marlon shared insights into his future ventures with his siblings and their shared comedic roots.
Marlon and Damon Wayans Sr., both veterans of the beloved ’90s series “In Living Color,” showcased their desire to reconnect through a new project. Although specific plans for a reboot of the series, which originally aired from 1990 to 1994, are not being discussed, the brothers are open to developing a variety show together. “In Living Color,” created by their older brother Keenen Ivory Wayans, holds significance as a groundbreaking show that redefined Black comedy on mainstream television. As Marlon reflected, “We do want to do a show together, eventually, some type of variety show. I think it’d be fun.”
Since its airing, “In Living Color” has been remembered for catapulting the careers of several comedians, including Jim Carrey. Reflecting on their creative bond, Damon noted the natural chemistry that exists between them. “There’s just this trust thing that happens and chemistry,” he explains. “The thing that takes actors years to develop, we have that automatically, which is chemistry and trust. And so when Marlon starts going a certain way, I just know — I have faith he knows where he’s going, and if not, I can steer him back to planet Earth.”
The influence of family runs deep for the Wayans siblings, each of whom brings a wealth of talent and experience. Their latest collaboration on “Poppa’s House” highlights this synergy. The show features Damon Wayans Sr. and his son, Damon Wayans Jr., while Marlon made a special guest appearance, portraying a “smooth-talking brother” with a mischievous agenda, underscoring the humor and dynamic storytelling the Wayans are known for.
Kim Wayans, another talented sibling, directed the episode in which Marlon appeared. As Marlon noted, “Kim gives you these little nuggets of story and things to remember,” reflecting the depth and care she brings to her directing work. Damon’s eagerness to have Kim on set underscores the unique dynamic of their familial collaboration. He humorously adds, “We hired Kim to direct this because she’s the only director who can check Marlon and get him to just to focus.”
The significance of this familial collaboration extends beyond entertainment. Marlon sees this joint creative effort with his siblings as an opportunity to inspire new generations. “We just love what we do,” Marlon shared. “We were just blessed to be able to do it with each other. And it’s great that that’s made an impact because I remember watching great families like the DeBarges […] and the Jacksons and how much that affected our household.”
The excitement surrounding possible future collaborations rests on the shoulders of the family legacy they have built. For fans and audiences, the prospect of a new Wayans family project offers a moment of anticipation, aligning with their track record of innovative, boundary-pushing comedy. As Marlon contemplates the future, his optimism for working with his siblings is palpable and promising, embodying a blend of creativity, trust, and familial camaraderie.
“Poppa’s House” airs on CBS at 8:30 p.m. ET on Mondays, continuing to bring laughs and warmth through the familial bonds of the Wayans family. As they look to the horizon for new opportunities, the Wayans brothers remain steadfast in their mission to entertain and inspire.
