Chris Rock, in a recent interview, expressed considerable frustration regarding a pivotal decision made by Fox Broadcasting Company, specifically the decision to discontinue his sitcom, ‘Everybody Hates Chris,’ prior to its subsequent move to UPN. Rock contends that this choice significantly altered his financial future, a sentiment he highlights in a discussion with Variety, where he stated, ‘If it aired on Fox, I wouldn’t be here.’
The genesis of this dispute lies in Fox’s decision to move ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ to UPN in 2005, after airing nine episodes during the summer of 2004. This shift, according to Rock, proved costly, particularly considering the show’s subsequent success and the subsequent network changes that led to its demise. Fox’s decision was a direct consequence of the network’s decision to move the show, a decision that Rock perceives as a significant setback.
Rock’s recollection of the situation began with a comedic framing device, in which he joked about Fox potentially making him significantly wealthier. He further elaborated that the decision wasn’t simply a logistical one; it represented a fundamental shift in the show’s trajectory. The network’s move, he emphasized, pushed the core concept of the sitcom away from its original voice and identity. He described the situation as ‘frustrating’ and a challenge to his attempts to maintain the show’s ‘ghetto’ appeal, particularly in the context of his teenage years in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn.
‘Everybody Hates Chris’ was conceived around Rock’s teenage years in Brooklyn, featuring a diverse cast including Tyler James Williams as young Chris, Terry Crews, and Tichina Arnold as Julius and Rochelle Rock. The series aimed to blend family pressure, school struggles, and neighborhood life, creating a dynamic and relatable portrayal of adolescence.
UPN, the initial network distributor, aired the first season of ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ from 2004 to 2009, building a substantial syndication following. The show’s initial ratings were impressive, establishing it as a popular option for viewers across the United States, particularly in Brazil. The series’ broad reach extended beyond its initial viewership, becoming particularly cherished in Brazil and continuing to be visible through streaming and cable reruns.
Following the show’s initial run, Rock and Ali Roer’s built a significant following through the series, with the show’s success fueled by its original premise, cast, and comedic timing. The show was then revived and transitioned to a new animated series, ‘Everybody Still Hates Chris,’ in 2024, featuring the original cast returning as Chris’s parents, continuing the story after the original finale.
The television show’s initial launch was on Comedy Central on September 25, 2024, before its first 10 episodes reached Paramount+ in May 2025. Rock’s commentary underscores the lasting impact of this pivotal moment in his career, highlighting the challenges he faced in preserving his comedic voice and creative vision amidst the evolving television landscape. The decision to move ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ to UPN, and subsequently the animated series, is now viewed as a significant turning point in the show’s trajectory, reflecting the complexities of network decisions and the enduring legacy of a beloved sitcom.”
“The decision to revive the story as an animated comedy series in 2024 represents a reimagining of the original concept, acknowledging the shifting tastes of audiences and the evolution of television. Rock’s narration underscores the enduring significance of the show’s roots and the challenges of maintaining creative integrity in a dynamic media environment.
Source: AllHipHop
