WKRP's Connection To Groundbreaking Comedy Duo

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It's a story that not many are aware of... But it is, bar none, one of the coolest stories in the world of standup comedy!

Tim & Tom made their debut in 1969 at a jazz club in South Chicago. They were the first ever interracial comedy team.

White clubs had issues with Tim being black.

Black clubs had issues with Tom being white.

But, together, they managed to find audiences, and had them cracking up with some of the most original, and edgiest comedy ever heard.

Tim is Tim Reid. You know him best as Venus Flytrap on WKRP In Cincinnati.

Tom is Tom Dreesen. For years he was Frank Sinatra's opening act, and appeared regularly on late night talk shows including Johnny Carson and David Letterman.

The duo of Tim and Tom reunited for an episode of WKRP with Tom playing the role of Rick Jesperson, the only white reporter employed at a black magazine, sent to interview Venus, the only employee of colour at a white radio station. I know all of the WKRP episodes by heart, but was not aware of their connection until I read their book a few years ago.

(Tim and Tom: An American Comedy in Black and White, is a great read by the way.)

As always, on that episode (titled CHANGES, Feb 3, 1982) they found away to build bridges through laughter.

Venus Flytrap: "I tell you, though, you kind of threw me there."

Rick Jesperson: "I'm sorry."

Venus Flytrap: "I didn't know you'd be white."

Rick Jesperson: "I thought this was a black station."

Venus Flytrap: "It's a white station."

Rick Jesperson: "I'm white. My magazine's black."

Venus Flytrap: "I'm black."

Rick Jesperson: "We're an equal opportunity employer."

Venus Flytrap: "Same here."

Tom Dreesen passed away yesterday at the age of 86, his last appearance on TV just a few days ago on Comics Unleashed With Byron Allen, the show that replaced Colbert.

I loved his comedy.

I love his story even more.

His work... Their work... Made the world a better place.

Thanks for the laughs Tom! RIP.

What a legacy! - Milkman

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