Richard Pryor is arguably the most provocative stand-up comedian the US has ever produced, but he’s also the most unlikely star to have made it big in Hollywood.
Raised in brothels, his youth was marked by poverty and isolation. But when he took to the stage, he plumbed the very depths of his existence to bring biting social commentary to the forefront of stand-up comedy.
Pryor had the comedic chops and daring to turn his personal crises – drug use, near-death experiences and racism – into brilliantly funny routines that continue to bring audiences to tears decades later.
Today at 3pm, Seán will be chatting to Scott Saul, whose intimate biography of the fearless funnyman reveals the tragedy behind the comedy. You can listen live here: http://www.newstalk.com/player/
And what better way to prepare for it than by reliving some of Pryor’s best stand-up moments with these eight classic jokes - which are about as far away from political correctness as you'd expect...
1: On cocaine
2: On the N-Word
3: On living in the jungle
4: On having a broken heart
5: On alcoholics and drug addicts
6: On the mafia
7: On fighting
8: On the Chinese language
