A documentary based on the life of Richard Pryor is in development at Paramount Network. Pryor’s life is the latest in a line of influential comedians to receive the documentary treatment.
I Am Richard Pryor will follow Pryor as he grows up in a brothel run by his grandmother to become one of the most iconic, and popular comics of the 20th century. Pryor, best known for his confessional style of stand-up, was an outspoken social critic on race relations in America. He also made a name for himself as an actor, starring in films such as Stir Crazy, Silver Streak, and Bustin’ Loose.
The film will be executively produced by Pryor’s widow, Jennifer Lee Pryor. It will be the latest film in the ‘I Am’ series from Network Entertainment. Past documentaries in this series have chronicled the lives of comics such as Sam Kinnison and Chris Farley.
Lee Pryor released a statement regarding the news after the announcement. “From very humble beginnings, my husband lifted himself up and propelled himself through an iconic comedy career during America’s rockiest years, tackling racism, transcending boundaries, finding himself and inspiring many. I am confident that Network Entertainment will produce an outstanding film about my husband that does him justice both as a cultural icon and as a man.”
The film will feature interviews from many comedians and entertainers including Tiffany Haddish and Mike Epps.
No release date for I Am Richard Pryor has been announced. The film will premiere exclusively on Paramount Network.
This story was first reported by Variety.
