ReLiving Single Podcast Episode Summary: "Wonder Kid" featuring Gary Leroy Gray

Release Date: July 2, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Wonder Kid," hosts Erika Alexander and Kim Coles delve into the intricacies of parenting and child acting, drawing parallels between real-life experiences and their beloved sitcom, Living Single. Featuring a special guest, Gary Leroy Gray, the discussion offers listeners an insightful journey through the challenges and triumphs of balancing career and parenthood, both on and off the screen.

1. Opening Conversation: Reflections on Parenthood

The episode begins with Erika and Kim reflecting on their personal choices regarding parenthood. Erika asks, "Do you regret not having kids?" leading to Kim's heartfelt response about her decision to freeze her eggs at 48 and the poignant conversation with her doctor:

Kim Coles [00:18]: "I wanted to freeze my eggs. And my doctor said, your eggs are so old... if you had a baby, it would come out on a walker already."

Erika humorously adds:

Eric Alexander [00:32]: "The kid is that cold."

The hosts share their experiences of not having biological children but instead having children named after them, emphasizing the lasting legacy of Living Single.

2. Introduction of Guest: Gary Leroy Gray

The conversation shifts to introduce Gary Leroy Gray, a seasoned actor known for his roles in various beloved TV shows. Erika recounts her early experiences as a child actor, highlighting the challenges of being on set without parental support:

Eric Alexander [02:07]: "It was my first time on a set professionally. My mother could not be with me. I was alone on set a lot."

Gary joins the discussion, bringing a wealth of knowledge from his extensive career, including memorable roles in The Cosby Show, Family Matters, and voice acting in Fairly OddParents.

3. Deep Dive into "Living Single with Children" Episode

Kim provides an overview of the Living Single episode being discussed:

Kim Coles [05:03]: "We're watching a season one episode eight, A Living Single with Children. The storyline is that Regine begins seriously dating Patrick, who has a child. The B story is that Kyle becomes a member of a Big Brother program."

Notable guest stars Raven Kelly and Gary Leroy Gray are highlighted for their roles, bringing depth and authenticity to the episode's exploration of parenthood within the context of the show.

4. Experiences as a Child Actor

Gary shares his journey into acting at a young age, from being discovered in Philadelphia to landing a lead role in a Merchant Ivory film:

Gary Leroy Gray [03:31]: "After several screen tests, they gave me the role. That was the beginning of my career... I learned a lot of wonderful things from those beautiful on the job training."

Kim underscores the professionalism of child actors on set, emphasizing the importance of being role models:

Kim Coles [03:58]: "My first kids on the show were real pros. They had it together."

5. Parenting Styles: Personal Stories vs. TV Portrayals

The hosts juxtapose their real-life parenting philosophies with those depicted on television. They discuss how Living Single portrays different parenting styles through characters like Regine and Kyle, highlighting the show's nuanced approach to blending humor with serious themes.

Kim narrates a specific scene where Regine auditions to be a mother, revealing her vulnerability and integrity:

Kim Coles [11:23]: "Regina did always tell people what she did or did not want. And nowadays I get the feeling that a lot of people hide that..."

Erika adds her perspective on the importance of honesty in relationships:

Eric Alexander [23:04]: "She has a point of integrity and character. I'm not ready for all this, and I'm not sure this is gonna work out right."

6. Gary Leroy Gray's Acting Journey and Current Projects

Gary discusses his transition from child actor to adult roles, emphasizing the significance of adaptability and personal growth in his career:

Gary Leroy Gray [49:33]: "I had to make sure that my mental... was okay before I go out and do all of that."

He highlights his upcoming projects, including returning to Fairly OddParents and venturing into animated productions as a producer and writer:

Gary Leroy Gray [57:55]: "I'm working on my own stuff, you know, as a producer and a writer. Mainly animated."

7. Impact of Television and Media on Parenting

The hosts engage in a thoughtful discussion about how television shapes societal views on parenting. They reference classic shows like Leave It to Beaver, The Brady Bunch, and The Cosby Show, analyzing the portrayal of parental roles and their influence on real-life parenting styles.

Kim shares personal anecdotes about her parents' approach to parenting, contrasting traditional discipline with gentle parenting techniques:

Kim Coles [35:26]: "My mother established a beautiful trust. If you come home and tell me that something happened, I will not punish you."

8. Memorable Quotes and Insights

Throughout the episode, several notable quotes encapsulate the discussion's essence:

• Kim Coles [25:00]: "When the time is right, honey, I'm having me a whole bunch of babies. My jeans are too good to waste."

• Eric Alexander [32:04]: "A woman, a mother, has to change because we have to change then."

• Gary Leroy Gray [53:19]: "The success of a child actor requires complete partnership with the parents."

9. Conclusion: Reflections on Parenthood and Legacy

As the episode draws to a close, Erika and Kim reflect on the enduring legacy of Living Single and the importance of open conversations about parenthood. They encourage listeners to engage with the podcast by sending in questions and sharing their own stories.

Kim Coles [63:41]: "Thank you so much for watching this episode of Reliving Single."

Key Takeaways:

• Balancing Career and Parenthood: Both hosts and Gary emphasize the challenges and rewards of managing professional ambitions alongside personal desires for family.

• Influence of Media on Real-Life Parenting: The discussion highlights how television portrayals can both reflect and shape societal norms and individual parenting styles.

• Child Acting Experiences: Gary's insights shed light on the complexities of child acting, including the necessity of strong familial support and the importance of maintaining one's identity amidst public scrutiny.

• Legacy of Living Single: The podcast reinforces the show's impact on redefining comedy, friendship, and the Black experience, encouraging listeners to appreciate its cultural significance.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Kim Coles [00:18]: "I wanted to freeze my eggs... your eggs are so old..."

• Eric Alexander [02:07]: "It was my first time on a set professionally..."

• Kim Coles [05:03]: "We're watching a season one episode eight, A Living Single with Children..."

• Gary Leroy Gray [03:31]: "That was the beginning of my career..."

• Eric Alexander [23:04]: "She has a point of integrity and character..."

• Kim Coles [35:26]: "If you come home and tell me that something happened..."

• Gary Leroy Gray [53:19]: "The success of a child actor requires complete partnership with the parents."

Final Thoughts

"Wonder Kid" serves as a poignant exploration of the intersections between personal life, career, and societal expectations. Through candid conversations and shared experiences, Erika Alexander, Kim Coles, and Gary Leroy Gray offer listeners a rich tapestry of insights into the multifaceted world of parenting and acting. Whether you're a longtime fan of Living Single or new to the series, this episode provides a meaningful reflection on legacy, growth, and the enduring bonds that tie us together.