BEN VEREEN … COMIN’ AT YA (1975) – As famous and celebrated as the multitalented Ben Vereen is, he’s STILL underrated! At least here in 2026 he is, but in 1975 the stage and television performer was enchanting the U.S. like no other black performer since Sammy Davis Jr.
A virtual human whirlwind, Vereen had made a name for himself on the stage in productions of Jesus Christ Superstar, Pippin and others. He appeared in the films Sweet Charity (as he had on stage) and Funny Lady (ditto).
In 1975 Ben’s performance in the miniseries Roots was still in the future, but most of America was introduced to the incredible entertainer that year during his 4-episode summer replacement series – a variety hour titled Ben Vereen … Comin’ at Ya.
Vereen hosted the program plus sang, danced and starred in comedy sketches with celebrity guest stars. One of the show’s regulars was the one and only Lola Falana, who always got a show-stopping introduction from Ben. (“Lola Fuh-LAW-Naaa, Lola Fuh-LAW-Naaa.”)
The other regulars were Liz Torres and Arte Johnson, and the opening theme was Magic to Do from Pippin.
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