In announcing its debut, Fox described "In Living Color" as a "contemporary comedy variety show". In its preview, the "Christian Science Monitor" warned that its, "raw tone may offend some, but it does allow a talented troupe to experiment with black themes in a "Saturday Night Live"-ish format." Keenen Ivory Wayans said, "I wanted to do a show that reflects different points of view. We've added an Asian and a Hispanic minority to the show. We're trying in some way to represent all the voices. ... Minority talent is not in the system and you have to go outside. We found Crystal doing her act in the lobby of a theater in Chicago. We went beyond the Comedy Stores and Improvs, which are not showcase places for minorities."