Watch The Soul Man
- TV-PG
- 2012
- 5 Seasons
-
6.0 (834)
The Soul Man is a comedy series that aired on TV Land from 2012 to 2016. The show follows the life of Reverend Boyce "The Voice" Ballentine (played by Cedric the Entertainer), a former R&B singer who becomes a pastor and moves with his wife Lolli (Niecy Nash) and daughter Lyric (Jazz Raycole) from Las Vegas to St. Louis to take over his father's church. The show explores the challenges of integrating the secular world of entertainment into the religious world of ministry. This theme is seen throughout the show as Reverend Ballentine navigates the expectations of his church and congregation while still trying to maintain his connection to his music and his past as a performer. The dynamic between Reverend Ballentine and his wife Lolli provides a lot of the show's humor. Lolli is a strong-willed, independent woman who often competes with her husband for control over their household and the church. Niecy Nash brings a lot of personality to her character, and her chemistry with Cedric the Entertainer is undeniable. The show also explores complex social and political issues in a comedic way. For example, there is an episode where Reverend Ballentine must confront his own prejudices when he learns that his daughter is dating a white boy. Another episode deals with gun control after a shooting at the church. Throughout the show, the supporting cast provides a lot of laughs. Wesley Jonathan plays Stamps, Reverend Ballentine's best friend and church assistant. Stamps is often the voice of reason in the show and provides a counterbalance to Reverend Ballentine's impulsive personality. John Beasley plays Reverend Ballentine's father, Barton, who is very different from his son but still has a lot of influence over the church. Barton is old-fashioned and formal, whereas Boyce is more laid back and casual. Their relationship is complicated by their differing beliefs about how the church should be run. The show also features a lot of guest stars, often playing themselves. Some of the notable guest stars include Brandy, Richard Roundtree, Tamar Braxton, and Yolanda Adams. Overall, The Soul Man is a funny and heartwarming show that explores complex issues with humor and sensitivity. Cedric the Entertainer and Niecy Nash both give great performances, and the rest of the cast provides a lot of laughs. If you're looking for a show that will make you laugh and think, The Soul Man is definitely worth checking out.