The late comedic legend Richard Pryor was unapologetic about his romantic involvement with actor Marlon Brando, according to his widow, Jennifer Lee Pryor.
Speaking at the premiere of the documentary “I Am Richard Pryor” at South by Southwest, she emphasized that Pryor did not hide his connection to Brando, even amidst public scrutiny.
Jennifer Lee Pryor disclosed that Brando would often join them for cha-cha dancing sessions and showcased impressive dance skills.
Quincy Jones, a musician, had initially brought up the affair in an interview with Vulture, where he described Brando as someone who was not selective in his romantic pursuits, mentioning Pryor among others.
Regarding Pryor’s sexuality, Jennifer revealed that within his inner circle, he openly acknowledged being bisexual, especially during the liberal atmosphere of the 1970s.
She nostalgically reflected on the era, highlighting the prevalence of drugs like quaaludes and cocaine, which contributed to a more uninhibited lifestyle.
Despite claims from one of Pryor’s children from a previous marriage disputing the affair with Brando, Jennifer stood by her account and defended her decision to speak out.
She asserted that Pryor himself would have been candid about the relationship and would have supported her stance against any detractors.
Furthermore, Jennifer shared insights into Pryor’s diverse romantic interests, mentioning a brief liaison with a transgender woman that ended when she underwent gender confirmation surgery.
She also noted that Pryor’s stand-up routines often delved into his encounters with men, showcasing his willingness to address taboo subjects on stage.
In a notable 1977 performance at a gay rights benefit show, Pryor startled the audience by declaring, “I have sucked a dick,” before expressing discontent over the lack of diversity in attendance.
He criticized what he perceived as racial biases within the gay community, drawing parallels to the struggles faced by African Americans.
Jennifer recalled the intensity of Pryor’s delivery during the show, explaining that his provocative statements aimed to highlight shared experiences while also challenging prevalent prejudices.
She interpreted his words as a way of asserting his connection to the LGBTQ+ community while acknowledging existing disparities.
“I Am Richard Pryor” is set to premiere on the Paramount Network this Friday at 10 p.m. Eastern time, promising an insightful exploration of the iconic comedian’s life and legacy.
Through candid interviews and archival footage, the documentary aims to provide a comprehensive look at Pryor’s multifaceted personality and his impact on comedy and social discourse.
