The Richard Pryor Show (1977)

Overview

The Richard Pryor Show, a groundbreaking comedy variety series, debuted on NBC on September 13, 1977, at 8 p.m., competing with the beloved Laverne & Shirley and Happy Days. Created by Rocco Urbisci under Burt Sugarman Productions, it emerged from a widely acclaimed special featuring Pryor earlier that year. The show showcased Pryor's unique humor and social commentary, earning both critical acclaim and commercial success. Despite its innovative approach and influence, TV Guide later recognized it as one of the 60 shows "Cancelled Too Soon" in their 2013 retrospective.