Ep 8. Endangered Species

In Living Color is a sketch comedy show that ran from 1990-1994 and was created by comedian Keenen Ivory Wayans. The show featured a predominantly Black cast and was known for its edgy humor and cultural commentary.

Season 1, episode 8, titled "Endangered Species," aired on April 7, 1990. The episode starts off with a sketch called "Homeboy Shopping Network" where two Black men sell items like gold chains and boomboxes to audiences at home. This sketch sets the tone for the rest of the episode as it pokes fun at consumer culture and stereotypes associated with Black people.

The next sketch, "Handi-Man," features Damon Wayans in a superhero costume, but with the twist that he is disabled and has various physical limitations. The sketch is a parody of traditional superhero shows and comments on the lack of representation and stereotypes of disabled people in media.

In "Men on Film," two flamboyantly gay men (played by Damon Wayans and David Alan Grier) review movies and give their over-the-top opinions. This sketch, which became a recurring segment on the show, was controversial for its portrayal of gay men, but also praised for its subversion of stereotypes and depiction of Black men in non-traditional roles.

"Laquita Meets the Press" is a talk show parody where a Southern Black woman (played by Kim Coles) discusses current events and her personal life with white journalists who are condescending and dismissive of her. This sketch comments on the intersection of race and class and the power dynamics present in media.

The final sketch of the episode, "Hey Mon, It's a Miracle," features Jim Carrey as a stereotypical Jamaican man performing faith healing on audience members. The sketch comments on the exploitation of religion for profit and the appropriation of Caribbean culture.

Overall, "Endangered Species" showcases In Living Color's ability to use comedy to comment on social and cultural issues while also pushing boundaries and challenging stereotypes.