The so-called “King of the Party Record,” Redd Foxx got his start as a comic telling some of the most outrageous, X-rated jokes audiences had ever heard, going on to sell an estimated 20 million records.

Known to millions as “Dolemite”—the provocative tough-talking hustler he played in his most popular films and albums—Rudy Ray Moore built a loyal and lasting following, especially among a later generation of hip-hop artists, who dubbed him “The Godfather of Rap.”

Fusing comedy and activism, Dick Gregory was one of the most forcefully political comics of his generation.

The original queen of comedy who styled herself “The Funniest Woman in the World,” Moms Mabley shattered barriers that had kept Black comics, and especially women, from taking center stage.

Flip Wilson, television’s first Black superstar, hosted his own variety show that rose to the top of American TV ratings.

One of the fiercest and most fearless comics of his generation, Paul Mooney masterfully crossed the line with humor and intention.

Take a deep dive into the personal and political lives of six trailblazing Black comedy icons with your host comedian/actor JB Smoove (Curb Your Enthusiasm).