For over a decade, fans have been teased with rumors about a Richard Pryor biopic, but the project remains on hold. Still, the conversation was reignited recently when a screenwriter released footage of Marlon Wayans auditioning for the role of Pryor. That clip went viral on X and quickly turned into a social media debate. People are split down the middle, with many arguing that Mike Epps has the look and comedic edge to play Pryor, while others believe Wayans has the emotional depth and range to pull it off.
So, if this movie ever gets the green light, who should step into those iconic shoes?
While the biopic might still be in limbo, Black-ish creator Kenya Barris has something in the works. He confirmed to Variety that he’s producing a docuseries about Richard Pryor’s life — from birth to death — and says it’s a passion project. “It is my baby. I love it. He is my comedy god,” Barris said. “A super flawed guy, but to this day, has the comedy that we remember.”