Yvette Lee Bowser’s sitcom “Living Single” hit Fox in 1993 and quickly became a beloved show. This TV show, partially inspired by the life of its creator, follows six Black friends from Brooklyn navigating their 20s as they try to make it in the big city. The show aired for five seasons, until 1998, and grew to become one of the most popular and influential African-American sitcoms of the ’90s. So much so that many people regard it as the predecessor to Friends, the NBC show that premiered just a year after, with an extremely similar premise.
Although Living Single did not enjoy Friends’ massive success, it still ranked among Fox’s most popular shows at the time, and managed to build a solid fan base over the years, who still remember it fondly to this day. It’s been 30 years since the premiere of this TV show, and many of the original cast members are still involved in film and television. Here’s what they’re doing now.
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The Impact of Living Single in the 90s
Before diving into the lives of the cast members, it’s important to understand the significance of Living Single. The sitcom was groundbreaking for its time, offering a fresh perspective on the lives of young, Black professionals. Its representation of friendship, career challenges, and romantic endeavors was both relatable and authentic. The show was known for its witty humor, memorable one-liners, and the undeniable chemistry among the cast members, which kept viewers tuning in week after week.
Who Were the Main Characters of Living Single?
The show’s ensemble cast included six primary characters:
- Khadijah James (Queen Latifah) – The owner and editor of Flavor magazine, Khadijah was the strong, independent leader of the group.
- Regine Hunter (Kim Fields) – A fashion-conscious, man-chasing diva who was always on the lookout for the next big thing.
- Maxine Shaw (Erika Alexander) – A sharp-witted, opinionated lawyer known for her love of food and tendency to clash with others.
- Synclaire James-Jones (Kim Coles) – Khadijah’s cousin and secretary, Synclaire was sweet, naive, and always provided comic relief.
- Overton Wakefield Jones (John Henton) – The lovable handyman and Synclaire’s love interest who was known for his charming personality.
- Kyle Barker (T.C. Carson) – A suave, confident stockbroker who often sparred with Maxine but shared undeniable chemistry with her.
Where the Living Single Cast Is Today
1. Queen Latifah (Khadijah James)
Queen Latifah, born Dana Owens, was already making waves in the music industry before starring in Living Single. Her role as Khadijah James solidified her as a versatile entertainer. After Living Single, Queen Latifah’s career soared to new heights. She starred in movies such as Set It Off (1996), Chicago (2002), for which she received an Academy Award nomination, and Hairspray (2007).
She also had her own talk show, The Queen Latifah Show, which ran from 1999 to 2001 and then again from 2013 to 2015. Beyond acting, she’s continued her music career, earning a Grammy Award and multiple nominations. Recently, she’s starred in the action-packed TV series The Equalizer, which premiered in 2021, showcasing her continued presence on the small screen. Queen Latifah remains a powerful force in both the entertainment industry and her philanthropic efforts, advocating for body positivity and social justice.
2. Kim Fields (Regine Hunter)
Kim Fields was already a familiar face to TV audiences, having starred in The Facts of Life before joining Living Single. As Regine Hunter, she brought her comedic chops and flair for fashion to the role. After the show, Fields continued to work in television, directing episodes of popular series like Kenan & Kel, Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, and Meet the Browns.
In addition to her directing work, Fields competed on Dancing with the Stars in 2016 and joined the cast of The Real Housewives of Atlanta for its eighth season. More recently, she starred in the Netflix series The Upshaws alongside Mike Epps and Wanda Sykes. Fields has also returned to the stage, showcasing her versatility as both an actress and director.
3. Erika Alexander (Maxine Shaw)
Erika Alexander’s portrayal of Maxine Shaw, the bold and brilliant lawyer, made her a standout character on Living Single. Post-show, Alexander continued her acting career with roles in TV shows like Judging Amy, In Plain Sight, and Bosch. She also had recurring roles in Black Lightning and the critically acclaimed miniseries When They See Us.
In addition to her acting, Alexander has expanded her creative horizons. She co-created the graphic novel series Concrete Park and is actively involved in social and political causes, including voter registration efforts. Her advocacy for diversity in Hollywood and beyond demonstrates her commitment to using her platform for positive change.
4. Kim Coles (Synclaire James-Jones)
Kim Coles brought her infectious energy and comedic timing to the role of Synclaire James-Jones. After Living Single, Coles went on to host the game show Pay It Off and appeared on reality TV shows such as Celebrity Fit Club and The Mole. She also had guest appearances on numerous TV series, including Frasier and Six Feet Under.
In addition to her on-screen work, Coles has written a book titled Open Your G.I.F.T.S.: 22 Lessons on Finding and Embracing Your Personal Power. She has also been involved in motivational speaking and workshops, focusing on self-love and empowerment. Coles continues to perform stand-up comedy, bringing laughter and inspiration to audiences nationwide.
5. John Henton (Overton Wakefield Jones)
John Henton’s portrayal of the lovable handyman Overton Wakefield Jones earned him a special place in the hearts of Living Single fans. After the show ended, Henton starred in another successful sitcom, The Hughleys, where he played the role of Milsap Morris. He also made guest appearances on various TV shows, including One on One and Love That Girl!.
Henton took a brief hiatus from acting after a serious car accident in 2000 but returned to stand-up comedy, which he had been doing before his TV success. Today, he continues to perform comedy across the country, maintaining his connection with fans through his humor.
6. T.C. Carson (Kyle Barker)
T.C. Carson’s role as the smooth-talking Kyle Barker made him a fan favorite on Living Single. His character’s witty banter with Maxine was a highlight of the show. After leaving Living Single, Carson lent his voice to the iconic character Kratos in the God of War video game series, which garnered him a new fan base. He also made appearances in TV shows such as Star, Greenleaf, and Black Lightning.
Carson is also a talented singer, having released his own jazz albums. He continues to perform music and act, showcasing his diverse talents. His commitment to the arts remains evident through his ongoing work in various entertainment mediums.
The Legacy of Living Single
Living Single has left an indelible mark on television history. The show not only provided laughs but also addressed relevant social issues, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. Its impact on African-American representation on TV paved the way for future shows centered around Black culture and experiences. The chemistry between the cast members, combined with strong writing and relatable storylines, made Living Single a cultural touchstone.
Why Living Single Still Matters Today
Even 30 years after its premiere, Living Single remains relevant. The show’s themes of friendship, love, career struggles, and personal growth resonate with audiences across generations. It was one of the first shows to showcase the everyday lives of Black professionals in a positive and empowering light, challenging stereotypes and providing a platform for Black voices. Its influence can be seen in subsequent TV shows that feature diverse casts and perspectives.
Conclusion: Living Single – A Timeless Classic
Living Single may not have achieved the same level of mainstream success as some of its contemporaries, but its legacy endures. The cast members have continued to thrive in their careers, contributing to the entertainment industry in various ways. As the show reaches new audiences through streaming platforms and syndication, its message of friendship, empowerment, and authenticity remains as powerful as ever.
For those who grew up watching Living Single or discovered it later, the show serves as a reminder of the importance of representation, community, and staying true to oneself. It’s no wonder that the series is still celebrated, quoted, and cherished by fans around the world. The Living Single cast’s continued success and relevance are a testament to the show’s lasting impact on television and popular culture.
