Welcome to another edition of Retro Rewind, the TGJ original feature carved out to take our readers on a fun-filled journey to the past.
Today, following the release of her latest musical effort ‘Do You Love Him?’, we celebrate the groundbreaking moves the actress Countess Vaughn made in 90s sitcom history with ‘Moesha‘ and its spin-off ‘The Parkers.’
Meet us below to learn more…
Originally created for CBS, UPN’s ‘Moesha’ saw Vaughn take on the role of Kim Parker, the lead character’s fun-loving best friend.
With Countess’ comedic help, the series broke new ground for the network on a ratings front when it surpassed viewership efforts made by other programs on the platform to become a 90s television classic.
In 1999, as her star on the series began to rival Brandy’s, Vaughn was offered her very own TV series which would serve as a ‘Moesha’ spin-off.
Its name?
Starring Mo’Nique and ‘Moesha’s Yvette Wilson, the series followed Kim’s life as she made the transition from teen to young adult by starting college.
Inspiring hilarity ensues when Mo’Nique (who played Nikki Parker) decides to join her at school to reboot the educational journey she was forced to abandon when she gave birth to her boy-crazy daughter.
After turning both of its leading ladies into household names, and serving as the blueprint for Disney’s ‘That’s So Raven‘, the series came to an end after five seasons.
Its final episode, which aired on May 10th 2004, picked up 3.6 million viewers.
Extra: ‘The Real Houswives of Atlanta‘s NeNe Leakes and ‘Basketball Wives‘ player Tami Roman both played minor roles in the series during its run before finding fame on Reality TV.
Catch Roman in action below…
HEY PROFESSA
♫♫ Do you love him…do you? ♫♫
Heyyyy. I was a fan of the show. Countess is a real talent. The entire series is available for purchase on DVD on amazon.com.
I’m still trying to figure out why the complete set of Moesha isn’t available to purchase. These shows made my entire teenage years enjoyable at home ?????????❤️
The Parkers is ICONIC!
The Parkers is legendary they don’t make sitcoms like that Anymore.
This is still my show. I watch reruns on YouTube and this network called UP.
Legendary Sit Com!
Back when Monique hosted BET awards… Those were some good days!
The show is awesome and amazing comdey