WATCH: Richard Pryor’s impact on comedy and activism

Comedian Richard Pryor is not remembered enough for speaking truth about “a very unique kind of Black experience,” according to his daughter, historian Elizabeth Pryor.

“I think that he’s remembered as an important comedian … But what he did, and managed to do, was to use his art to make this very profound commentary,” she told PBS News’ Geoff Bennett.

“I think he is a leader in his field, an important American figure,” she later added. “I’m always upset when people are heralding the important activists from the 20th century, and he’s not always on the list. He should be.”

Elizabeth, a professor at Smith College, has spent much of her career studying the history of the N-word. In her new book, “Something We Said: Richard Pryor, a Notorious Word, and Me,” she examines how her father changed comedy and his relationship with the N-word.

Elizabeth Pryor spoke to Geoff Bennett for the latest episode of PBS News’ podcast, “Settle In,” about her new book and her father’s legacy.

For the full episode, click the link in our bio.

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