News
December 03, 2025
Why ‘Living Single’ Was Never Just a ‘Black Show’
Erika Alexander and Kim Coles talk ReLiving Single podcast and the Living Single’s lasting legacy.
**Why ‘Living Single’ Was Never Just a ‘Black Show’**
For many, the sitcom "Living Single" was a cultural touchstone of the 90s. The show, which followed the lives of six young Black professionals navigating love, careers, and friendship in a Brooklyn brownstone, resonated far beyond its immediate demographic. Now, Erika Alexander, who played Maxine Shaw, and Kim Coles, who portrayed Synclaire James-Jones, are revisiting the show's enduring impact with their podcast, "ReLiving Single."
The podcast delves into the show's legacy, exploring why "Living Single" continues to captivate audiences decades after its original run. Alexander and Coles emphasize that while the show undoubtedly celebrated Black culture and experiences, its themes of friendship, ambition, and self-discovery were universal. These are concepts that viewers of all backgrounds could connect with, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
“It was never *just* a Black show,” Alexander stated in a recent discussion about the podcast. “It was a show *about* Black people, which is different. We were showcasing our lives, our humor, our struggles, but those are all human experiences.” Coles echoed this sentiment, highlighting the show's groundbreaking portrayal of independent women supporting each other. “We were showing women being successful, being vulnerable, and being there for each other. That's something everyone can relate to.”
"ReLiving Single" offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the show, featuring interviews with cast members, writers, and crew. The podcast also explores the show's influence on subsequent television programs, particularly its impact on the sitcom landscape. Many believe "Living Single" paved the way for other successful shows centered around diverse casts and perspectives.
Beyond the nostalgia, the podcast aims to spark conversations about representation, diversity, and the importance of seeing oneself reflected on screen. Alexander and Coles hope that "ReLiving Single" will inspire a new generation to appreciate the show's groundbreaking legacy and its continuing relevance in today's world. The podcast is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries, proving that "Living Single" was, and still is, a show for everyone.
For many, the sitcom "Living Single" was a cultural touchstone of the 90s. The show, which followed the lives of six young Black professionals navigating love, careers, and friendship in a Brooklyn brownstone, resonated far beyond its immediate demographic. Now, Erika Alexander, who played Maxine Shaw, and Kim Coles, who portrayed Synclaire James-Jones, are revisiting the show's enduring impact with their podcast, "ReLiving Single."
The podcast delves into the show's legacy, exploring why "Living Single" continues to captivate audiences decades after its original run. Alexander and Coles emphasize that while the show undoubtedly celebrated Black culture and experiences, its themes of friendship, ambition, and self-discovery were universal. These are concepts that viewers of all backgrounds could connect with, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
“It was never *just* a Black show,” Alexander stated in a recent discussion about the podcast. “It was a show *about* Black people, which is different. We were showcasing our lives, our humor, our struggles, but those are all human experiences.” Coles echoed this sentiment, highlighting the show's groundbreaking portrayal of independent women supporting each other. “We were showing women being successful, being vulnerable, and being there for each other. That's something everyone can relate to.”
"ReLiving Single" offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the show, featuring interviews with cast members, writers, and crew. The podcast also explores the show's influence on subsequent television programs, particularly its impact on the sitcom landscape. Many believe "Living Single" paved the way for other successful shows centered around diverse casts and perspectives.
Beyond the nostalgia, the podcast aims to spark conversations about representation, diversity, and the importance of seeing oneself reflected on screen. Alexander and Coles hope that "ReLiving Single" will inspire a new generation to appreciate the show's groundbreaking legacy and its continuing relevance in today's world. The podcast is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries, proving that "Living Single" was, and still is, a show for everyone.
Category:
Entertainment