Damon Wayans Sr. Reveals He ‘Fell in Love’ with His Nephew’s Ex-Girlfriend

Damon Wayans Sr. is keeping it all in the family — quite literally.

During his appearance on the April 2 episode of Club Shay Shay with Shannon Sharpe, the 64-year-old comedian revealed that he once fell head over heels for a woman who happened to be his nephew’s ex-girlfriend.

“I was in love with her, that’s the thing,” Wayans confessed. He even joked about the situation, asking Sharpe, “You ain’t never done the Jackson 5?” — referencing how Jermaine Jackson famously married brother Randy Jackson’s ex, Alejandra Oaziaza.

When Sharpe, 56, raised an eyebrow at the revelation, Wayans explained that it wasn’t as scandalous as it sounded. His nephew and the woman weren’t “in love,” and by the time Wayans pursued her, his own marriage to Lisa Thorner had ended.

“I got divorced and was by myself for two years,” he said. “And then I saw her and I was like, ‘Oh my God, I’m in love.’ Then I found out my nephew had dated her.”

Before making any moves, Wayans made sure to get his nephew’s blessing.

“I’m like, you know, ‘What’s up?’ And he’s like, ‘That’s you.’ And I’m like, ‘Okay, pass the Courvoisier, let’s go!’” he joked. “And I went ahead and I fell in love. It was okay. Family gatherings are awkward, though.”

Wayans comes from a famously tight-knit and talented family. His brother, Keenen Ivory Wayans, created the iconic sketch comedy show In Living Color, which featured Damon and several other Wayans siblings.

The family’s tradition of working together continues today, with Damon’s son, Damon Wayans Jr., following in his father’s comedic footsteps.