Welcome back to another soulful and hilarious deep dive into the iconic world of Living Single. This week, we’re shining the spotlight on the one and only John Henton, who brought to life the unforgettable character of Overton Wakefield Jones. From his wild audition story to the brotherhood he shared with Kyle, and even some behind-the-scenes laughs about nudity (of the bodysuit kind!), this episode is a treasure trove of memories and insights that remind us why this show remains a classic.
John Henton’s Audition Journey: Hammer and Humor
John’s story begins with a packed Warner Brothers audition room filled with over sixty hopefuls vying for a role. His secret weapon? A tool belt with a single hammer, perfectly aligned with the handyman character he was auditioning for. Spotting Yvette Lee Bowser, the brilliant creator and writer of Living Single, John knew he had to charm her. And charm her he did, earning multiple callbacks until it was down to just him and one other contender.
One of the most memorable moments was during the final reading when the air conditioning was out, and roof workers made a ruckus. John didn’t hesitate—he literally told them to “shut the hell up” because he was trying to get a job. That boldness sealed the deal and brought Overton to life on our screens.
Rewinding to “The Naked Truth”: Brotherhood and Banter
Season 1, Episode 11, “The Naked Truth,” offers a glimpse into the playful yet complicated dynamic between Overton and Kyle, played by TC Carson. The episode features a rare argument between these two best friends, breaking the stereotype that men always get along smoothly. John and TC dive into the nuances of male friendship—how men fight differently than women, often cutting straight to the chase and then moving on quickly.
John Henton: “Guys, we just cut right to the chase… We fight, and then we get a beer and it’s over with.”
Yet, the podcast discussion reveals a wisdom in this approach, especially as age brings the ability to “X” people out rather than engage in prolonged drama. “Don’t get mad, just be done,” John advises, a philosophy that resonates deeply in today’s fast-paced world.
Household Rules and Humor: What’s Allowed in the Apartment?
Living with friends can be a comedy of errors, and Overton’s antics upstairs in the apartment bring that to life. From shaving in the ladies’ sink to wearing a shower cap over his trademark hat (a clever nod to his real-life hair loss), John shares how these moments were all about playful authenticity. The episode balances risqué humor with sibling-like affection, especially in the famously “naked” scene where Khadijah steps out of the shower in a bodysuit, and Overton’s innocent reaction keeps the moment funny rather than sexualized.
They also get into the nitty-gritty of living habits—no cats allowed, no crumbs in the bed, but farting? Totally fine. The banter about “ass crumbs” versus “cookie crumbs” is classic Living Single humor, reminding us that the show’s magic was in its relatability and the quirky details of everyday life.
The Power of Brotherhood and Community
John and TC reflect on the importance of their characters as positive male figures during a time when 90s culture was heavily influenced by toxic masculinity. Overton and Kyle were the antidote—grounded, respectful, and deeply connected to their community and each other.
TC Carson: “Brotherhood. They took care of each other and they took care of their community.”
They emphasize the safe space the cast created, the creativity that flourished, and the protective love they shared both on and off the set. Stories of guarding the female cast members from overzealous fans show the real-life bond and respect behind the scenes.
Behind the Scenes: Friendship, Fun, and Firsts
John candidly shares how Living Single was his first acting gig since high school, and he soaked up every moment like a sponge. His chemistry with Kim Coles (Sinclair) was natural and intentional, crafted to mirror a believable and tender romantic connection rarely seen on television at the time.
He recalls the excitement of the pilot episode, the audience’s reaction to their bathroom scene, and the pride in knowing the show was something special from the very beginning. The podcast hosts even dive into some spicy “Truth or Challenge” moments that reveal the fun and professional boundaries maintained on set, including jokes about “slipping tongues” and nudity under the kente cloth.
Legacy of Overton Wakefield Jones
John’s portrayal of Overton left a lasting impact, earning love not just from fans but from peers like Laurence Fishburne, who praised the authenticity and relatability of the character. The name Overton Wakefield Jones became iconic, with fans recognizing John by his character’s full name even decades later.
The podcast closes by celebrating the enduring brotherhood, the lessons learned about apology and growth, and the joy of creating a show that balanced humor with heart. Overton and Kyle’s friendship remains a blueprint for positive male relationships, reminding us all that taking care of each other and our communities is timeless.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a longtime Living Single fan or discovering it fresh, this episode with John Henton is a testament to the power of authenticity, friendship, and laughter. From wild auditions to meaningful reflections on masculinity and brotherhood, it’s a celebration of what made the show—and its cast—so special.
Stay tuned, stay laughing, and as always, keep reliving single.
