Keenen Ivory Desuma Wayans (born June 8, 1958)[1] is an American actor, comedian, director and filmmaker.

[9] During his first set performing at The Improv in New York, Wayans met Robert Townsend, who helped him learn about the comedy business.

He had a regular role as a soldier on the television series For Love and Honor[8] and appeared on Hill Street Blues as an NFL wide receiver.

[10] Wayans wanted to produce a variety show similar to Saturday Night Live, with a cast of people of color that took chances with its content.

[10] Wayans created, wrote, and starred in the show, In Living Color, a sketch comedy television series that originally ran on Fox from 1990 to 1994.