The 1990s was an epic era. In addition to the fashion and chart-topping R&B groups, the decade gave the world some of television’s best Black sitcoms. From classics like “Living Single,” “A Different World,” “Martin,” and the “Fresh Prince of Belaire” — Black representation was at an all-time high.

The conclusion of these shows left Black entertainment with a small void in the sitcom space. While some shows held it down, it wasn’t like the television takeover in the ’90s. Then comes “Black-ish,” a sitcom based on the suburban life of Andre Johnson and his family. It details the joys and challenges of navigating life while Black, particularly in a specific tax bracket. The brain behind this concept is Kenya Barris.

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Kenya Barris was born in Inglewood, CA, and established his love for media arts by graduating from Clark Atlanta University in 1996 with a degree in mass media arts. Upon completion of his degree, the 48-year-old went on to take up space in the industry by writing and working for hit shows like “Soul Food,” “Girlfriends,” and “Listen Up.”

But the writer and producer didn’t always walk on “easy street” while navigating his career. In a conversation hosted by Essence, television icon Jackée Harry admitted that she was not nice to Barris when he worked on the set of “227” delivering scripts.

Sheryl Lee Ralph and Jackeé Harry on learning to keep their egos in check. “You know who used to bring me my scripts from 227? Kenya Barris. I wasn’t nice to him. See, look at me now.” pic.twitter.com/22Vc9wLpV5

— Brande Victorian (@Be_Vic) January 4, 2023

Since those times, Barris was not only able to create an entire television universe with shows like “Mixed-ish” and “Grown-ish,” he was also a contributor on the big screen, too — having credits on “Girls Trip” and “Coming 2 America.” He was even able to circle back to Harry and share details about their interactions in the ’80s.

Harry recalling the interaction with Barris could be a testament to how hard work and perseverance pay off. Additionally, Kenya Barris’ accumulation of a $75 million net worth, as listed by Celebrity Net Worth, could be a testament as well.

And with no stopping point in sight, let’s look inside the empire Barris is building.

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