Shabba Ranks Chased Marlon Wayans Around the Set of In Living Color For Playing With Him With Mr Ugly Man! LOL

In the early ’90s, In Living Color was one of the most unpredictable, unfiltered, and wildly entertaining television shows on air. The Wayans family pushed boundaries every week, blending sharp satire with unforgettable characters. But one sketch in particular sparked a behind-the-scenes moment that has lived in comedy legend: the day Dancehall icon Shabba Ranks chased Marlon Wayans around the set after seeing his parody character, “Mr. Ugly Man.”

The Infamous Sketch That Started It All

Marlon Wayans, known for his fearless comedic style even early in his career, created “Mr. Ugly Man” as a playful jab at Shabba Ranks’ distinctive look and swagger. The sketch exaggerated Shabba’s deep voice, bold fashion, and dancehall charisma—exactly the kind of over-the-top humor In Living Color thrived on.

But Shabba Ranks, one of the biggest Dancehall artists in the world at the time, wasn’t laughing.

Shabba Ranks Shows Up — And He’s NOT Happy

According to those who were there, when Shabba Ranks visited the set and saw Marlon in full character—makeup, wig, outfit, and all—the Dancehall star took it personally. What started as a joke quickly turned into chaos as Shabba began chasing Marlon Wayans across the set, furious about being impersonated.

But in classic Wayans fashion, Marlon didn’t break character. Instead, he ran—fast—and kept the moment lighthearted, even as crew members intervened.

A Moment That Became Comedy Lore

Though Shabba Ranks was upset in the moment, the incident became part of Hollywood comedy lore, retold for years as a reminder of how far In Living Color pushed the envelope. The show never hesitated to parody celebrities, and most took it in stride. But sometimes, the jokes hit a little too close.

As for Marlon? The story only added to his legacy as a comedian who gave everything to the joke—even if it meant being chased by an international superstar.

A Look Back With Humor

Today, the story is remembered with laughter. It highlights not only the bold comedy of In Living Color, but also the cultural impact of Shabba Ranks, who was influential enough to be spoofed on one of the hottest shows of its time.

Even decades later, “Mr. Ugly Man” remains a memorable piece of sketch-comedy history—and the behind-the-scenes chase is the cherry on top.