Like a similar syndicated show from around the same time period, Uptown Comedy Club and the Fox series In Living Color, Apollo Comedy Hour featured a cast of young hopeful comedians, guest stars and a new musical act for each episode.
The cast was primarily black[6] and Hispanic, with sketches primarily written around their personal experiences and observations. Series regulars included Paula Jai Parker,[7]Grace Garland, Lisa Nicole Carson,[8]Debra Wilson, and Ian Edwards. Randl Ask and later Ilan Kwittken were the only white cast members. The show was hosted by Phyllis Stickney.[9] Mary Flowers[10] served as music talent executive.
Meanwhile, Patrice O'Neal's first television appearance was on The Apollo Comedy Hour.[11] Other performers featured included Derrick Fox, Yusuf Lamont, Kool Bubba Ice,[12] Gil T,[13] A.G. White,[14] Deirdre Boddie-Henderson,[15] Mike Yard,[16]John Henton,[17] Charles Walden,[18] Damon Rozier, Freddie Ricks,[19] Darryl Littleton,[20] Daran Howard,[21] Tony Woods,[22] and Alonzo Bodden.[23]