Whoopi Goldberg announced that she is planning on directing a documentary based on the life of African American female comic Moms Mabley. A pioneer of the chitlin’ circuit, Mabley was influential in the careers of Bill Cosby, Richard Pryor, Phyllis Diller, Bernie Mac and Goldberg. A possible year-end premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival is hoped for.
Goldberg is also exploring the possibility of a solo show about Mabley titled Moms. It would use some of the late comedian’s material. Goldberg is currently serving in the role of producer with the Broadway musical, Sister Act, opening April 20. In addition to earning a Grammy, Oscar and Golden Globe Award, Goldberg is a Tony-winning producer of 2002’s Thoroughly Modern Millie. She is a co-host of ABC Television’s “The View.
Mabley was born Loretta Mary Aiken in Brevard, N.C., in 1894. The comedian took her name from an early boyfriend, citing that he took so much from her; it was only right that she take something of his. One of the most successful performers on the chitlin’ circuit, Mabley made $10,000 per week at the Apollo Theater at the height of her career. During the 1960s, Mabley was introduced to a wider audience and began appearing in movies and television, making many appearance on the “Smothers Brothers.” Mabley recorded 20 albums before her death in 1975.
