Back in the early 90s, there were two sketch comedy shows worth watching: Saturday Night Live and In Living Color. Obviously, the latter one, which was produced and directed by the Wayans Brothers, didn’t last as long as the former, but some would argue—myself included—that it was far superior. After all, it did jumpstart funnyman Jim Carrey’s film career, culminating ultimately in the cinematic masterpiece known as Ace Ventura: Pet Detective.

Still, for all its hilarious recurring characters, In Living Color had one that was by and large the best: Homey D. Clown, the sock-totin’ clown with a major attitude. With his trademark catch phrase “Homey don’t play that,” Homey served his own special brand of socially conscious justice by knocking children and adults alike upside the head, if they said anything that he deemed inappropriate.

During the five-season run of the show, Homey’s schtick never got old. When he dressed up as Santa Claus, we laughed. When he kicked a pie into a little boy’s face, we laughed. When he fell in love with his equally unpleasant, yet undeniably hot parole officer, we laughed… and cried with joy.

Sadly, in this day and age, there aren’t many, if any, characters out there quite like Homey D. Clown. These days it’s all about parodying real-life clowns, like George W. Bush, rather than masquerading as a faux one.

More Homey D. Clown goodness:

Homey D. Clown As Santa Claus

Homey D. Clown As a Teacher

Homey D. Clown As a Boy Scout Leader