ReLiving Single Podcast Episode Summary: "90s Kinda Dating"

Release Date: May 21, 2025

Welcome to a detailed exploration of Episode "90s Kinda Dating" from the ReLiving Single podcast, hosted by the iconic sitcom stars and lifelong friends, Erica Alexander and Kim Coles. In this episode, Erika and Kim delve deep into the nuances of dating in the 1990s, intertwining personal anecdotes with insightful analyses of memorable moments from the beloved sitcom Living Single. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the series, this episode offers a rich tapestry of humor, nostalgia, and thoughtful discourse on the evolution of relationships.

1. Personal First Date Experiences

The episode kicks off with Erica and Kim sharing their very first dating experiences, setting the stage for a conversation that combines personal vulnerability with relatable humor.

• Kim Coles reflects on her cautious approach to dating:
  "Well, I actually waited a long time to date everyone or everyone seemed to be pregnant. And so in my mind, dating led to pregnancy and you know, Nah, I didn't want to be pregnant. I was terrified of that." [00:03]

• Erica Alexander contrasts her own dating style:
  "I have a very different experience because I'm a terrible first dater because I date and then I make them my boyfriend right away." [01:13]

2. Revisiting a Classic Date from the Show

Erica and Kim transition into discussing a specific Living Single episode where the character Sinclair navigates the complexities of dating in a big city.

• They recount how Sinclair was set up on a date and the friends' involvement in overseeing her romantic endeavors:
  "It's time for the rewind where we watch and relive living single with you." [02:27]

• Kim Coles highlights Sinclair's naivety and Overton's persistent affection:
  "Overton's like, I don't get it. You know that. That doesn't appeal to him." [07:07]

3. The Dynamics Between Sinclair and Overton

A significant portion of the episode delves into the evolving relationship between Sinclair and Overton, two beloved characters whose chemistry was central to the show's success.

• Erica Alexander praises Overton's genuine character:
  "He was so sweet, so kind. Just easy to be around." [14:44]

• They discuss the subtle hints and audience anticipation surrounding their relationship development:
  "You can tell by the audience's reaction that they had already bought into something that they felt was beginning to happen." [07:56]

4. Comparing 90s Dating to Modern-Day Practices

Erica and Kim take a nostalgic stroll through the dating landscape of the 1990s, juxtaposing it with today's digital advancements.

• Erica Alexander reminisces about traditional dating methods:
  "Paging someone like it was a love letter." [33:14]

• Kim Coles contrasts this with contemporary online dating challenges:
  "A lot of people are saying there's too many masculine women. What does that mean?" [39:00]

5. Character Insights and Development

The hosts provide deeper insights into character traits and their significance in both the show and real-life dynamics.

• Kim Coles emphasizes Overton's depth beyond comic relief:
  "They can be funny, but they have to still be men and still have, you know, important things to say and still have interests and not there just to serve the comedy." [27:22]

• Erica Alexander discusses Sinclair's purity and its impact on viewers:
  "There is a softness, there is a masculinity, a femininity that... she's all feminine." [39:28]

6. Listener Engagement: "True Blue" Segment

Towards the end of the episode, Erica and Kim engage with their listeners through the "True Blue" segment, answering questions and sharing personal preferences.

• A listener from D.C., Janae J., asks about favorite 90s black male celebs they wished their characters could date on the show.

  • Kim Coles expresses admiration for Billy Dee Williams:
    "I love Billy Dee because he was with Diana Ross and he says, what, do you want my arm to fall off?" [44:14]

  • Erica Alexander shares her fondness for LL Cool J:
    "LL Cool J would be my spoon. He's a Capricorn. He licks his lips." [46:06]

7. Reflections on the Show's Legacy and Modern Relevance

Concluding the episode, the hosts reflect on how Living Single has influenced modern perceptions of dating and relationships, especially within the Black community.

• Erica Alexander highlights the show's unique portrayal of love and authenticity:
  "If Sinclair and Overton were on a white show, they would have won an Emmy." [28:33]

• Kim Coles underscores the importance of authentic relationships and avoiding stereotypes:
  "We didn't want to turn into Lenny and Squiggy. These guys... they have important things to say." [27:37]

8. Tribute to Late Actor Tommy Michael Ford

The episode takes a poignant turn as Erica and Kim pay tribute to Tommy Michael Ford, an actor fondly remembered for his role and personal kindness.

• Erica Alexander remarks on Tommy's legacy:
  "He was a great father. And a great dad showed up." [48:59]

• Kim Coles emphasizes his professional ethic and the impact of his loss:
  "He went very early and it was shocking to all of us." [49:14]

Conclusion

In "90s Kinda Dating," Erica Alexander and Kim Coles masterfully blend humor, personal stories, and critical analysis to celebrate Living Single and its enduring impact on the portrayal of Black relationships in media. Through memorable quotes and heartfelt discussions, they offer listeners both a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a thoughtful examination of how far dating practices have come since the 1990s.

Whether reminiscing about beepers and mixtapes or contemplating the complexities of modern online dating, this episode serves as a testament to the timeless themes of love, friendship, and authenticity that Living Single championed. Join Erica and Kim each week as they continue to relive and celebrate the moments that made Living Single a cornerstone of television history.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "I actually waited a long time to date everyone or everyone seemed to be pregnant..." — Kim Coles [00:03]

• "I'm a terrible first dater because I date and then I make them my boyfriend right away." — Erica Alexander [01:13]

• "Drink, and I have to go. Can I drop you off on the way?" — John Hinton [21:28]

• "It's like we're two black men. We not gonna do that." — Kim Coles [27:25]

• "I have a high booty." — Erica Alexander [13:19]

• "Men feel very unaligned, not just dating, but with who they are in the world and their purpose." — Kim Coles [36:38]

• "We didn't want to turn into Lenny and Squiggy." — Erica Alexander [27:37]

• "He was a great father. And a great dad showed up." — Erica Alexander [48:59]

Hosts and Production Credits:

• Hosts: Erica Alexander and Kim Coles
• Production Team:
  • Executive Producers: Kevin Hart, Jeff Clanigan, Eric Eddings, Leslie Guam, Erica Alexander, Ben R. Nan
  • Produced by Kim Coles
  • Senior Producer: Amber Watson
  • Associate Producer: Kenny Jackson
  • Video Editor: Shannon Joy Rogers
  • Sound Engineers: Eric Hicks and Cedric Wilson
  • Production Supervision: Razak Boykin
  • Additional Production Support: Alex Atkins and Z. Taylor
  • Special Thanks: Dr. E.J. Johnson

Connect with ReLiving Single:

Share your thoughts, questions, and experiences by visiting relivingsinglepodcastartbeat.com. Join Erica and Kim every week as they continue to celebrate and dissect the moments that made Living Single a beloved classic.