The presence of community and support in one's life can do wonders for self-esteem and personal development, and legendary comedian Damon Wayans recently proved just how true that statement is.
While promoting his new series Poppa's House alongside his son Damon Wayans Jr., the two stopped by The Talk to discuss the inspiration behind the new show and what it felt like to reunite with each other on screen.
While there, Damon (senior), who's widely known for starring in projects like In Living Color, My Wife and Kids, and Major Payne, revealed one of the things that encouraged him to pursue comedy was the encouragement he received from his high school science teacher, even when other faculty members didn't think he'd make it out alive.
After Damon stumped his former teacher with a question on inertia, Mr. Freedman complimented Damon on his ability to get the class's attention. Mr. Freedman then allowed Damon to perform his jokes for five minutes during class, as a form of appreciation.
"I would do impressions of him," Damon said on The Talk. "And all of the other teachers. But he was the only one who told me that I had a gift."
"Everybody else said you're either gonna be dead or in jail, including the guidance counselor."
Although Damon laughed that detail off while telling the story, I can only imagine what it must've felt like to hear that as a child by people who were supposed to uplift him.
Well, look who's having the last laugh — literally! The Wayans built a groundbreaking family empire and cemented themselves as comedic icons in Hollywood.
To learn more about Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr., be sure to watch the full interview with The Talk below:
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And don't forget to check out Poppa's House, which airs on Mondays at 8:30 p.m. ET on CBS.
Is there someone who supported you when others swore you were destined to fail? Share your story with us in the comments!
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