The beloved ‘90s comedy Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead gets a fresh, hilarious update from writer/producer Chuck Hayward and director Wade Allain-Marcus. The pair took some time to chat with me about their creative process, the film’s cultural nuances, and how they approached bringing this iconic story to a new generation. 

For Chuck Hayward, reviving a childhood favorite was a dream come true.

“When the producers came to us with the idea, I was all in,” Hayward said. “I wanted to make it as funny as possible while also reflecting a variety of Black experiences under one roof.”

The remake keeps the humor sharp but ensures that each character has their own distinct voice, making them relatable in entirely new ways. Now for Wade Allain-Marcus, who wasn’t as tied to the original, it was the heart of Hayward’s script that drew him in.

“The idea of young people being forced to grow up too quickly—it just hits differently when you look at it through the lens of the Black experience,” Allain-Marcus shared. “It’s a universal story, but the stakes feel more emotional and grounded in our version.” 

Both Hayward and Allain-Marcus worked to capture family dynamics that felt true to life. Unlike the original film, where characters could be seen smoking or talking back to parents, this remake keeps interactions culturally authentic.

“We wanted to honor the kind of respect and hierarchy that exists in most Black households,” Hayward noted. “It’s funny in its own way, but it’s rooted in reality.” 

While the movie is filled with laugh out loud moments, it doesn’t shy away from emotional depth. As Allain-Marcus explained, “It’s not just about the laughs. We wanted to show the pressures that families face, especially Black families, and how those pressures can create moments of tension and strength.” One scene that stood out during our discussion was a line where a character warns, “Please don’t try my mother.” It’s these moments that are simultaneously comedic and true to life, that make the film resonate with audiences. 

With its release on streaming platforms, Hayward and Allain-Marcus are excited to see how new audiences are connecting with the film.

“It’s been incredible to see people discover it,” Hayward shared. “There’s something special about watching a new generation build their own relationship with the story.”

Allain-Marcus added, “Streaming gives the movie a chance to reach people who might not have caught it in theaters. It’s amazing to see viewers connect with these characters and themes.” 

At its core, this film is a celebration of family and its quirks, challenges, and moments of growth. Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead is now streaming on BET+.

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