Renowned comedian Richard Pryor’s widow, Jennifer Lee Pryor, openly discussed her late husband’s affair with actor Marlon Brando, emphasizing his lack of shame regarding the relationship.
Speaking at the premiere of the documentary “I Am Richard Pryor” at South by Southwest, Jennifer revealed Pryor’s nonchalant attitude towards the affair, dismissing any notions of secrecy or embarrassment surrounding it.
The disclosure came after musician Quincy Jones had initially mentioned the affair in an interview with Vulture, prompting Jennifer to confirm the relationship.
Jones vividly recalled Brando’s vibrant personality, describing him as a charismatic individual who engaged in various social activities, including cha-cha dancing with Pryor and his circle of friends.
He further emphasized Brando’s uninhibited nature, stating that Brando was willing to engage intimately with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including personalities like James Baldwin, Marvin Gaye, and Richard Pryor.
Jennifer corroborated these accounts, highlighting Pryor’s openness about his bisexuality within his close social circle during the 1970s.
Refuting claims made by one of Pryor’s children from a previous marriage, Jennifer defended her statements about Pryor’s relationship with Brando, asserting that Pryor himself would have candidly addressed the matter if he were alive today.
She emphasized Pryor’s willingness to discuss such topics publicly and pointed out that he would have supported Jones amid the controversy.
Additionally, Jennifer disclosed Pryor’s brief involvement with a transgender woman, noting his evolving attitudes towards diverse s**ual experiences, as reflected in his stand-up comedy routines.
Jennifer shed light on a pivotal moment in Pryor’s career when he tackled issues of sexuality and race during a gay rights benefit show in 1977.
Pryor’s provocative statements about his own experiences, including admitting to specific s**ual acts, sparked both curiosity and controversy among the audience.
Despite the confrontational nature of his remarks, Jennifer underscored Pryor’s underlying message of solidarity with marginalized communities, acknowledging his complex relationship with his own identity and societal norms.
The documentary “I Am Richard Pryor” promises to provide a comprehensive insight into Pryor’s life and legacy, airing on the Paramount Network this Friday at 10 p.m. Eastern time.
Through intimate revelations and personal anecdotes, viewers will glimpse into the multifaceted persona of Richard Pryor, exploring his unapologetic approach to self-expression and his enduring impact on comedy and social discourse.
Jennifer’s candid reflections offer a unique perspective on Pryor’s journey, highlighting his resilience, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to challenging conventions and embracing diversity in all its forms.
