Franklyn Ajaye Biography

Fast Facts

• The San Francisco Chronicle said Franklyn has "Richard Pryor’s insights and Bill Cosby’s cool․"
• Graduated from UCLA
• Studied law at Columbia
• Began as a stand-up comic, making his TV debut on "The Flip Wilson Show" in 1973, followed by an appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" in 1974, then a role on "Saturday Night Live" during its third season
• Quote: "(On others pursuing comedy as a career) "I think being true to yourself is paramount․ It's really the only way to be an individual and original․ Having a plan when your starting out helps you deal with the inevitable fear one has, and is very important as well․""
• Actor-screenwriter whose work includes TV's "Deadwood," "Pirate Islands," "Politically Incorrect," "The Parent 'Hood" and "In Living Color," along with the films "Bridesmaids" (2011), "Queen of the Damned" (2002), "The Jazz Singer" (1980) and others
• Also played jazz music in his career's infancy, sparking his nickname "The Jazz Comedian․"
• Has taught a course in comedy at UCLA