NBC’s “The Carmichael Show” has won praise for attempting to make its humor topical, much in the tradition of the iconic Norman Lear comedies of the 1970s (“All in the Family,” “Maude”) and “In Living Color” — whose former star, David Alan Grier, plays Joe Carmichael, crotchedy dad to hip comedian and star Jerrod Carmichael.
In the first of two episodes airing on Sunday, Jerrod gives his parents (Loretta Devine plays Grier’s wife, Cynthia) tickets to a Bill Cosby show as an anniversary gift, kicking off a family debate as to whether they can enjoy Cosby’s humor in light of the sexual assault allegations that have plagued him.
Here, Grier tells The Post about taking on the scandal.
Is there a secret to making a topical joke funny?
The secret is to have no fear. Don’t overthink what your audience will think is funny. We put an Obama joke in front of the audience and [they were] so vociferous and questioning about it. So we got another that was funnier. We have that ability to change. You have to move forward.
Regarding the Cosby episode, do you think it’s possible to make a hot-button issue like that funny?
My opinion’s not my character’s opinion. Joe is like, “I haven’t been out of the house in 30 years. I’m going.” That’s what starts the argument. Every person in the room is brought into the conversation. When I read the first draft, I didn’t know if we were being too soft or too hard. It’s more nuanced than that now.
Have you known men like Joe Carmichael?
I grew up around men like Joe. Some are my family members. I love them. I love his point of view. He rules his kingdom from the Barcalounger and it extends to the remote. He doesn’t win many battles. The simplicity of his worldview is refreshing.
Were you surprised at the popularity of “The Wiz Live!”?
The night we did the performance, I turned my phone off. I didn’t want any negativity. It took 40 minutes afterward to get the costume and makeup off. I started reading responses and I burst into tears. I was not expecting all that love.
Are you considering updating your 2009 book “Barack Like Me: The Chocolate-Covered Truth”?
In another year, it will be time. If Trump gets elected that’s one step forward, 500 steps back.
“The Carmichael Show” airs at 9 and 9:30 p.m. Sunday on NBC