The Wayans name is synonymous with American comedy royalty. For decades, brothers Keenen, Damon, Shawn, Marlon, and Kim Wayans have crafted a comedic empire, leaving an indelible mark on film and television. But what happens when the next generation steps up to the plate, armed with talent, ambition, and a last name that’s both a blessing and a burden? This guide explores the profiles and contributions of the Other Second-Gen Wayans, primarily focusing on Damien Dante Wayans and Craig Wayans, who famously attempted to carve their own niche in Hollywood, sometimes literally escaping the shadows cast by their legendary uncles.
Their journey offers a fascinating look at legacy, identity, and the relentless hustle required to succeed in one of the world's most competitive industries.
At a Glance: Navigating the Wayans Legacy
- Who are they? Primarily Damien Dante Wayans (the director) and Craig Wayans (the writer), nephews of the iconic Wayans brothers.
- Their Big Break: The 2013 BET scripted comedy series Second Generation Wayans, which chronicled their fictionalized struggle to launch their own production company.
- Key Collaborator: George O. Core II, an "honorary Wayans" producer, played a pivotal role in their on-screen venture.
- The Show's Premise: Followed Damien and Craig as they tried to build independent careers, often being sought out only as a conduit to their more famous relatives.
- Reception & Legacy: The series received mixed to negative reviews, airing for one 10-episode season but drawing strong initial viewership. It highlighted the unique pressures faced by those inheriting a celebrated name.
- Their Contributions: Beyond the show, they continue to work in various aspects of entertainment, embodying the Wayans family's entrepreneurial spirit and diverse talents.
Beyond the Shadow: Damien and Craig's Hollywood Hustle
For many, growing up in a family of superstars might seem like a golden ticket. For Damien Dante Wayans and Craig Wayans, it was more complex. Nephews to comedy legends like Keenen Ivory Wayans, Damon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, and Marlon Wayans, they inherited a rich comedic DNA. Yet, with that legacy came immense expectations and the challenge of proving their worth beyond their lineage. Their unique struggle became the heart of their 2013 BET series, Second Generation Wayans.
The show, created by Damien, Craig, and Devon K. Sheperd, wasn't just a sitcom; it was a semi-autobiographical narrative exploring the very real pressures of breaking through independently when your last name opens some doors but keeps others tightly shut. It painted a candid, often humorous, picture of their attempt to launch "Second Generation Productions," aiming to define success on their own terms rather than being defined by their famous uncles. This ambition to build something new, even within the family framework, is a hallmark of the Wayans family tree, known for its creative self-reliance.
Damien Dante Wayans: The Director's Vision
As "The Director" in the Second Generation Wayans series, Damien Dante Wayans played a central role both on-screen and behind the scenes. Born into the Wayans dynasty, Damien has been immersed in the world of filmmaking and comedy from a young age. His role in creating the show was a natural extension of his passion and burgeoning career.
In the series, Damien's character embodied the directorial spirit – often visionary, sometimes chaotic, always driven. He was the one pushing the creative boundaries, trying to realize grand cinematic ideas with limited resources, a struggle familiar to many emerging filmmakers. Off-screen, Damien served as an executive producer for the series, lending his creative and strategic leadership.
Prior to and after Second Generation Wayans, Damien continued to hone his craft. While the series highlighted his directorial aspirations, his actual contributions often span writing, acting, and producing across various projects, many connected to his family's productions. He understands the mechanics of filmmaking, from script to screen, often bringing a contemporary edge to the classic Wayans comedic style. His work reflects an individual striving not just to replicate the success of his predecessors but to innovate within the comedy landscape, pushing the challenges of comedy series development in Hollywood. His profile is one of consistent engagement in the industry, adapting to its ever-changing demands.
Craig Wayans: The Pen Behind the Punchlines
Every great show needs a great script, and in Second Generation Wayans, Craig Wayans took on the mantle of "The Writer." His character in the show was often seen grappling with deadlines, creative blocks, and the pressure to deliver material that could stand up to the Wayans name. This portrayal wasn't far from the truth of a working writer in Hollywood.
Craig, as a co-creator and executive producer of the series, was instrumental in shaping the narrative and comedic voice of the show. His writing aimed to blend the signature Wayans brand of physical comedy and sharp wit with the unique, relatable struggles of young creatives trying to make it big. He brought a grounded perspective to the show's often outlandish scenarios, ensuring that even amidst the jokes, there was a core of authenticity.
Like Damien, Craig's career isn't confined to this one series. He has contributed his writing talents to a range of projects, often collaborating with other family members. His ability to craft compelling dialogue and develop engaging plotlines is a vital component of the Wayans creative engine. The Wayans family has always emphasized the importance of strong writing, understanding that jokes, no matter how well delivered, fall flat without a solid foundation. Craig carries that torch, consistently working to evolve the family's comedic legacy through his storytelling.
George O. Core II: The Unsung Architect, An "Honorary Wayans"
While Damien and Craig are blood relatives, the show introduced a crucial third member to their production company: George O. Core II, who played himself as "George (Producer/Honorary Wayans)." Core's inclusion in the main cast and as an executive producer was more than just a plot device; it reflected the real-world importance of trusted collaborators in any creative venture, especially one navigating the complexities of a famous family.
George's character in the series served as the pragmatic anchor, the business-minded individual responsible for logistics, budgets, and keeping the "creative geniuses" grounded. He represented the often-overlooked but essential role of a producer – the one who turns artistic vision into a tangible product. His "honorary Wayans" title playfully acknowledged that while he might not share the last name, he shared the ambition, the struggles, and the vision, making him an indispensable part of their journey.
In Hollywood, success is rarely a solo act. The Wayans family, throughout its history, has always benefited from a network of talented individuals, both within and outside the family, who contribute their expertise. George O. Core II exemplifies this dynamic, demonstrating that passion, trust, and shared goals can forge bonds as strong as blood, especially when aiming for a collective goal like the success of a production company. His presence underscores a critical lesson: even within a strong family brand, outside talent and partnership are key to expanding reach and impact.
Second Generation Wayans The Series: A Closer Look
The Second Generation Wayans television series was a significant moment for Damien and Craig, offering them a platform to tell their story and showcase their talents to a wider audience. Greenlit by BET in April 2012, it represented an expansion of BET Original Productions' strategy into scripted family comedies, airing weekly on Tuesdays at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT, following Real Husbands of Hollywood. This prime slot suggested the network had high hopes for its success, leveraging the powerful Wayans brand.
Production & Style
Filmed primarily at studios in Los Angeles, the show utilized a multi-camera setup, a classic sitcom approach that allows for live studio audiences and quick comedic timing. This choice aligned perfectly with the Wayans' comedic roots, which often thrive on immediate audience reactions and rapid-fire banter. The 22-minute runtime for each of its 10 episodes was standard for a network comedy, designed to be easily digestible and engaging.
Executive producers included Damien Wayans, Craig Wayans, George O. Core III (listed as Gore II in some contexts), Marlon Wayans, and Rick Alvarez. The involvement of Marlon Wayans, a first-generation icon, as an executive producer provided both mentorship and a crucial link to the established Wayans empire, while also highlighting the intergenerational support within the family.
The Cast: A Blend of New and Established Talent
The series was more than just its three main leads. Its cast also featured a compelling mix of established actors and emerging talent:
- Tatyana Ali as Maya (The Assistant): A familiar face from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Ali brought a seasoned professionalism and comedic timing that anchored the main trio's antics. Her character often served as the voice of reason or the exasperated assistant dealing with the chaotic aspirations of her bosses.
- LeToya Luckett as Rochelle: The Grammy-winning singer and actress added another layer of talent to the recurring cast, contributing to the show's ensemble dynamic.
- DeRay Davis as Himself: Adding to the meta-comedy, comedian DeRay Davis's recurring role blurred the lines between fiction and reality, a common trope in shows about Hollywood.
- Celeste Sullivan as Tiffany: Another recurring character who helped flesh out the world of the production company.
- Regina Hall as Herself: Like Davis, Regina Hall’s guest appearances added star power and comedic credibility.
- Henry Simmons as Baron "The Truth" Fouse: A strong presence who contributed to the narrative's dramatic and comedic arcs.
- David Gallagher as Jeremy Silverman: Appearing in 9 episodes, Gallagher played a significant role, indicating a developed storyline beyond the main trio.
The show also boasted an impressive lineup of guest appearances, further blurring the lines between the fictional Wayans world and real Hollywood: - Marlon Wayans: Appeared in two episodes, offering his famous nephew guidance (or sometimes, just more chaos).
- Damon Wayans, Jr.: Another prominent second-generation Wayans, his appearance reinforced the interconnectedness of the family's talent.
- Affion Crockett, Kevin Hart, Page Kennedy, Terry Crews, Gabourey Sidibe, Faune A. Chambers: These notable comedians and actors added star power and comedic energy, making the show feel authentically embedded in the contemporary entertainment scene. This blend of new and familiar faces, along with real-life industry figures, aimed to create a vibrant and believable world for the fledgling production company. It’s a testament to the Wayans' pull that such a diverse and talented group would join their project.
Reception and Legacy: A Mixed Bag
Second Generation Wayans debuted strong, drawing 3.4 million total viewers for its premiere on January 15, 2013. This made it the top cable program in its time slot among adults 18-49, indicating significant initial interest, likely fueled by the Wayans name. However, viewership declined over the season, with the finale on March 19, 2013, attracting approximately 1.3 million viewers.
Critically, the series received mixed to negative reception. On IMDb, it holds an average user rating of 5.3 out of 10, based on 267 votes. Common Sense Media gave it 3 out of 5 stars, recommending it for ages 14 and up, acknowledging its potential but criticizing predictable tropes and mild humor. The show was not renewed for a second season, and it garnered no major awards or nominations. As of November 2025, it is largely unavailable on major streaming platforms, though it was previously offered on Amazon Prime Video. This limited availability means its reach and re-watch potential are significantly reduced, impacting its long-term cultural footprint.
Despite its short run and mixed reviews, the series successfully put Damien and Craig in the spotlight, allowing them to explicitly address the unique challenges of being the second generation Wayans. It opened a dialogue about legacy and identity that resonated with many, whether in Hollywood or other family businesses. The show might not have been a critical darling, but it was a crucial step in their individual journeys, defining their ambitions and capabilities to a broad audience.
Beyond the Show: Individual Trajectories and Ongoing Contributions
The cancellation of Second Generation Wayans after one season didn't signal the end of Damien, Craig, or George O. Core II's careers in Hollywood; rather, it marked another chapter. In an industry defined by resilience, these "other" second-gen Wayans have continued to work, adapt, and contribute, carrying forward the entrepreneurial spirit that defines their famous family.
While specific, high-profile projects for Damien and Craig immediately after the show might not have dominated headlines, their consistent presence in the industry is notable. They have continued to act, write, and produce, often collaborating on other family projects or pursuing their own independent ventures. The Wayans family is a tightly knit unit, frequently working together on new films, stand-up specials, and television concepts. This means Damien and Craig often contribute behind the scenes or in supporting roles, building their experience and network incrementally.
For example, Damien Dante Wayans has directorial credits on projects like Damon Wayans: The Underground and has appeared in films such as Dance Flick (which he also co-wrote). Craig Wayans has contributed to screenplays for films like Scary Movie 2 and Dance Flick, further showcasing his writing chops. Their contributions often lie in the foundational elements of comedy — the script, the direction, the development — which are crucial to the success of any production. Their work, though perhaps not always front-and-center, is an integral part of the ongoing Wayans legacy. They are not just famous names; they are active, working professionals in the competitive landscape of Hollywood.
Their journey is a practical illustration of the ongoing debate around nepotism and merit in Hollywood. While their name undoubtedly provides a foot in the door, staying in the room and building a career requires genuine talent, hard work, and the ability to adapt. Damien and Craig are prime examples of individuals who have leveraged their background while striving to establish their own distinct artistic identities and professional reputations.
Navigating a Legacy: Lessons from the Next Generation
The story of the "other" second-generation Wayans offers valuable insights for anyone trying to forge their own path, especially when standing on the shoulders of giants.
- Embrace, But Don't Be Defined By, Your Legacy: Damien and Craig clearly respected their uncles' achievements, even incorporating them into their show's premise. However, their primary goal was to create their own production company. This balance—acknowledging heritage while asserting individuality—is key.
- The Power of Collaboration: The series highlighted the importance of a core team, even beyond immediate family. George O. Core II's role as the "honorary Wayans" producer underscores that shared vision and trust can be as powerful as blood ties. In any creative or entrepreneurial endeavor, surrounding yourself with diverse talents and perspectives is crucial.
- Resilience is Non-Negotiable: The entertainment industry is notoriously tough. Second Generation Wayans had a strong start but a short run. The measure of true contribution isn't always in immediate, runaway success, but in the sustained effort and continued work that follows. Falling short of initial goals is part of the journey; getting back up and continuing to create is what truly defines a career.
- Authenticity Sells: The show resonated initially because it tapped into a very real, relatable struggle: the desire for independent success, the pressure of family expectations, and the grind of Hollywood. Even when fictionalized, an authentic core narrative can capture an audience.
- Understanding Your Platform: BET provided a valuable platform for Damien and Craig. Knowing your audience and aligning your content with the network or platform that best suits it is a strategic move. Even if a show's run is brief, the exposure and experience gained are invaluable.
Their journey, and the existence of a show named Second Generation Wayans, truly illuminates the evolution of multi-camera sitcoms and how new generations adapt classic formats to tell their own contemporary stories.
Common Questions About the "Other" Wayans
When discussing the Wayans family, particularly the lesser-known second generation, several questions frequently arise. Let's address some of these to provide clarity.
Are Damien and Craig Really Wayans? How are they related?
Yes, Damien Dante Wayans and Craig Wayans are indeed part of the iconic Wayans family. They are nephews of the original Wayans brothers: Keenen Ivory, Damon, Shawn, Marlon, and Kim Wayans. Their father, Damon Wayans Sr., is one of the brothers. This makes them first cousins to other second-generation Wayans, such as Damon Wayans Jr. and Michael Wayans, who are Damon Wayans Sr.'s children. The family tree is extensive, and many members are involved in various aspects of entertainment.
Why was the Second Generation Wayans show cancelled?
The series was not renewed for a second season primarily due to declining viewership after a strong premiere, coupled with mixed to negative critical reception. While the pilot episode attracted 3.4 million viewers, subsequent episodes saw a significant drop, with the finale pulling in only 1.3 million. Networks often base renewal decisions on a combination of ratings, critical acclaim, and overall strategic fit. Despite its initial buzz, the show didn't maintain the audience engagement needed for a long run.
Where can I watch Second Generation Wayans now?
As of November 2025, Second Generation Wayans is not widely available on major streaming platforms. While it was previously offered on Amazon Prime Video, it has since been removed. This limited availability makes it challenging for new audiences to discover the show and for fans to re-watch it. Its current status highlights the transient nature of streaming content and the challenges of accessing older, shorter-run series.
What happened to George O. Core II after the show?
George O. Core II, the "honorary Wayans" producer, continued his career in entertainment as well. Like Damien and Craig, Core is a working professional in Hollywood, often involved in various production roles. His work, like many producers, might be more behind-the-scenes, supporting different projects within the industry. While he might not have the Wayans name recognition, his role in the series cemented his place as a key collaborator in a high-profile family venture.
The Enduring Spirit: Contributions Beyond the Screen
The journey of the "other" second-generation Wayans, particularly Damien Dante Wayans and Craig Wayans, offers a compelling narrative of ambition, legacy, and the relentless pursuit of one's own identity in a formidable industry. While Second Generation Wayans may not have become a multi-season phenomenon, its very existence and the stories it told are significant contributions.
It pulled back the curtain on the often-unseen struggles of working within a famous family, showcasing that even with a legendary last name, success is never guaranteed—it's earned through grit, creativity, and constant evolution. Damien and Craig brought a fresh, contemporary perspective to the Wayans brand of comedy, demonstrating that the family's influence extends far beyond its most famous members. They proved that the Wayans entrepreneurial spirit, the drive to create and produce their own content, is alive and well in the next generation.
Their story is a testament to the fact that contribution isn't solely measured by awards or blockbuster hits. It's also in the courage to tell your story, to push your creative boundaries, and to lay the groundwork for what might come next. The "other" second-gen Wayans are not just inheritors of a legacy; they are active architects of its future, continually adding new dimensions to one of Hollywood's most enduring comedic dynasties. Their contributions, both seen and unseen, ensure the Wayans name remains a vibrant force in entertainment for generations to come.