Keenen Ivory Wayans

Date of Birth: June 8, 1958

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Biography

Keenen Ivory Wayans is an accomplished American comedian, actor, writer, and director, best known for his groundbreaking work in sketch comedy. Born on June 8, 1958, in New York City, Wayans grew up in Manhattan’s Fulton housing projects. He is the second eldest of ten siblings, many of whom have also made significant contributions to the world of comedy and entertainment. Keenen Ivory Wayans rose to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with the creation of the iconic television show “In Living Color.” The show, which aired from 1990 to 1994, was a cultural phenomenon, known for its edgy humor, diverse cast, and launching the careers of many notable actors including Jim Carrey and Jamie Foxx. The show also featured several of Keenen’s siblings, cementing the Wayans family’s reputation in Hollywood. Beyond “In Living Color,” Keenen has directed, written, and starred in several successful films, such as “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka” (1988) and the “Scary Movie” series, which became one of the highest-grossing parody franchises. His contributions to comedy have earned him a place as one of the most influential figures in modern entertainment.

5 Interesting Facts about Keenen Ivory Wayans

1. Keenen Ivory Wayans was the first African American to create, write, and star in a primetime sketch comedy show.

2. He won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Series for “In Living Color.”

3. Keenen attended Tuskegee University on an engineering scholarship but left before completing his degree to pursue a career in comedy.

4. He was instrumental in the careers of several now-famous comedians, including Jamie Foxx, Jim Carrey, and Jennifer Lopez.

5. Keenen Ivory Wayans is a vegan and has been an advocate for animal rights and healthy living.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Keenen Ivory Wayans

1. “When we started ‘In Living Color,’ we set out to make the best show on television. We never said, ‘Let’s make the best black show.’”

2. “Humor helps us get through life with a little more ease and happiness.”

3. “The key to comedy is commitment to the absurd.”

4. “My family is my strength and my weakness.”

5. “I’ve always believed that you can’t just take something for granted. You have to work hard and stay focused.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At his peak, Keenen Ivory Wayans achieved a net worth of approximately $65 million.

Children

Keenen Ivory Wayans has five children with his ex-wife Daphne Wayans. Their names are Jolie Ivory Imani Wayans, Nala Yasmeen Ivory Wayans, Keenen Ivory Wayans Jr., Bella Ivory Aziza Wayans, and Daphne Ivory Shiva Wayans.