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Damon Wayans Sr. Opens Up About “Awkward” Family Dynamics After Dating Nephew’s Former Girlfriend
In a candid discussion, actor Damon Wayans Sr. recently shared details about the “awkward” atmosphere at family events after he pursued a relationship with his nephew’s ex-girlfriend. The star of “My Wife and Kids” made the revelation during an appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s “Club Shay Shay” podcast, discussing the complexities of dating within a close-knit family circle.
Revelation on “Club Shay Shay” Podcast
During the interview with former NFL player Shannon Sharpe, Wayans, 64, confirmed the unusual romantic connection. Sharpe directly questioned the comedian about the situation, asking, “This can’t be true… that you dated the same woman that your nephew was with?”
“I Was in Love With Her”
Wayans responded affirmatively, stating, “I was in love with her, that’s the thing.” He then lightheartedly likened the situation to the Jackson family, specifically referencing Jermaine Jackson’s marriage to Alejandra Oaziaza, who had previously been in a relationship with his brother Randy Jackson.
Relationship Context and Nuances
The actor clarified that his nephew’s prior relationship with the woman was not a serious, deeply committed romance. He emphasized this point to highlight the difference in emotional investment at the time he began seeing her.
Sharpe’s Reaction and Wayans’ Justification
Sharpe expressed surprise at Wayans’ disclosure, remarking, “That’s off limits, Damon.” Wayans countered by explaining the limited dating pool in California. “No, but it wasn’t like they were in love,” Wayans responded. “You know how small the pool is out here in Cali? The dating pool?”
Timeline of the Relationship
Wayans detailed that his relationship with his nephew’s ex-girlfriend began around 2001, subsequent to his divorce from Lisa Thorner. He recounted being single for two years after his divorce before encountering his nephew’s former partner.
“I got divorced and I was by myself for two years,” he explained. “And then I saw her [his nephew’s ex] and I was just like, ‘Oh my God. I’m in love.’ And then I found out my nephew had dated [her].”
Seeking Nephew’s Approval
Despite his strong feelings, Wayans prioritized family dynamics and spoke with his nephew before pursuing a serious relationship. He sought his nephew’s perspective and consent before proceeding further.
“I’m like, you know, ‘What’s up?’ and he’s like, ‘That’s you.’ And I’m like, ‘Okay, pass the Courvoisier, let’s go!’ And I went ahead and I fell in love and it was okay,” he recounted.
Impact on Family Gatherings
Despite the nephew’s approval, Wayans acknowledged that the unconventional relationship created some tension within the family. He admitted that it subtly altered the atmosphere of family gatherings.
“Family gatherings is awkward,” he remarked, underscoring the ongoing dynamic.
Residual Income from “My Wife and Kids”
In another segment of the interview, Wayans also discussed his financial success from the sitcom “My Wife and Kids,” which originally aired from 2001 to 2005. He mentioned receiving substantial residual checks from the show.
Contrasting Experiences with Syndication Checks
This part of the conversation arose after Shannon Sharpe referenced Bentley Evans’s recent statements on the “Holdin’ Court” podcast. Evans, co-creator of “The Jamie Foxx Show,” indicated he had not received syndication payments from the program.
“It was on a network, right?” Wayans inquired about “The Jamie Foxx Show,” which aired on The WB from 1996 to 2001. “I made a lot of money off of ‘My Wife and Kids.’ I can’t relate to that.”
Continued Financial Benefits
Wayans further elaborated on the contrasting experiences, noting that while his brothers didn’t significantly profit from “The Wayan’s Brothers” show on WB, his situation with “My Wife and Kids” was different.
“With WB, my brothers didn’t really make money off the Wayan’s Brothers show. Like I said, I made a lot of money from ‘Wife and Kids.’ I still get checks,” he reiterated. “Not to rub it in but I still get checks.”
Sitcom Success and Syndication
“My Wife and Kids,” a successful sitcom, spanned five seasons and entered syndication in September 2005, contributing to Wayans’ ongoing residual income.