Shelley R Bonus Was Richard Pryor’s Wife in the Late 60s – More about Her

Shelley R. Bonus was one of the many women Richard Pryor married. While their marriage lasted about two years, they welcomed a daughter who followed in their acting footsteps.

Shelley R. Bonus was born in the vibrant coastal town of Marina Del Rey, California, on March 28, 1947. Born Rochelle Bonis, she carried with her the rich tapestry of Jewish roots.

Shelley didn’t come from any ordinary family; she is the daughter of the late Herbert Bonis, a man distinguished not only as an Emmy Award-winning producer but also as the longtime manager of the legendary comedian Danny Kaye.

Shelley’s upbringing was filled with the glow of Hollywood’s golden era, setting the stage for a life that would later intertwine with the magnetic world of Richard Pryor, a comedic genius in his own right, who would become her second husband.

While married to one of the greatest comedians of all time, Shelley showcased her acting prowess, leaving an indelible mark in films like “Prime Time,” “Moment by Moment,” and “A Touch of Scandal.”

She inspired him to be politically aware, urging him to delve into the writings of young black poets and activists like Angela Davis and Malcolm X.

The backdrop of Shelley, then spelling her surname as Bonis and Richard’s love story unfolded in the vibrant energy of a dance club. This was just before the filming of the 1968 comedy-musical “Wild in the Streets,” with Richard cast as Stanley X.

Their meeting set the stage for a love story that would see the two exchange vows in 1967. But their marriage was short-lived, as the couple went their separate ways in 1969.

Even though their marriage didn’t stand the test of time, Shelley and Richard enjoyed their lives as husband and wife. They embraced a flower-child existence, creating their own Eden where love blossomed abundantly.

Shelley became a whimsical artist, adorning Richard’s hair with carefully arranged flowers and reciting romantic poems. The former couple exchanged unique gifts, with rocks bearing names becoming tokens of their affection.

Beyond the romantic gestures, Shelley played a crucial role in Richard’s life, reminding him of his people’s struggles and acting as a positive force. She inspired him to be politically aware, urging him to delve into the writings of young black poets and activists like Angela Davis and Malcolm X.

In their short-term marriage, Shelley and Richard Pryor welcomed their daughter, Rain Pryor, who followed in her famous parents’ footsteps. Rain has carved her path as an actress, accumulating a noteworthy list of credits showcased on IMDb.

Her outstanding projects include the sitcoms, “Rude Awakening,” and “Head of the Class.” She also appeared in the Oscar-winning movie, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” which starred Jim Carrey and Taylor Momsen.

Besides acting, Rain is also a comedian and writer. Her book, “Jokes My Father Never Taught Me,” chronicles her mixed heritage, living in her famous father’s house, her relationship with her paternal grandmother, and how her maternal Jewish grandparents treated her like a princess.

Originally published in October 2006, the book received several recognitions, including earning an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Literary Work – Biography/Autobiography.

Through her literary work, Shelley’s daughter shares her personal journey and adds a compelling voice to the broader narrative of identity, family, and the complexities of navigating diverse cultural landscapes.