A Legacy in Cartooning

Keith Knight, known for his original creations like “The K Chronicles” and “(Th)ink,” made significant contributions to comic art during the 1990s and 2000s. His work has garnered awards and attention for its insightful takes on various societal issues, especially relevant to his experiences in the Bay Area.

As one of the few nationally syndicated Black cartoonists, Knight’s journey has captured the interest of audiences and critics alike, often drawing comparisons to fellow cartoonist Aaron McGruder of “The Boondocks.” Their shared themes of race and culture highlight crucial dialogues within the community.

‘Woke’: A New Television Venture

Knight’s latest project, the Hulu series Woke, is inspired by his own experiences with racial profiling. The show centers on a Black cartoonist named Keef Knight, portrayed by Lamorne Morris, who encounters a life-altering event that awakens a new awareness of societal injustices.

This narrative aims to transcend mere entertainment by engaging audiences in discussions about race and identity, echoing themes explored in Knight’s comic strips.

Speaking on his creation process, Knight remarked, “That’s what sold! I’ve been doing my auto-bio comic strip for over 25 years. That’s a lot of I.P. They dug the stories I told.”

Setting and Significance

The Bay Area’s backdrop plays an integral role in Woke. According to Knight, “San Francisco was where I made my name as a cartoonist. It was and will always be my favorite city to live in.” His experiences in the city shape the storytelling, providing authenticity to the narrative.

Although shot in Vancouver due to budget constraints, the essence of San Francisco permeates throughout the series.

The Creative Process

When discussing the incorporation of animation in a primarily live-action format, Knight stated, “Pitching it as a live-action show gave it a better shot at selling.” He praised the animation team for their efforts, emphasizing that it enhances the narrative’s delivery.

This balance of live action and animation not only broadens the visual storytelling but also retains the distinctive style Knight has cultivated over his career.

A Diverse Crew and Creative Environment

Hulu’s commitment to diverse programming has been evident in the development of Woke. Knight noted the collaborative efforts behind the scenes, highlighting the importance of representation in the writers’ room and production team. He expressed satisfaction with Hulu’s approach, contrasting it with perceived shortcomings of other networks.

The Road Ahead

As the premiere of Woke approaches, Knight remains hopeful for future seasons. He has already conceptualized ideas for a potential second season, indicating that he seeks to continue sharing relevant stories that resonate with today’s audiences.