Aging isn’t treated like a punchline in “Big Age,” it’s the premise, the power, and the point.

Created by Kenya Barris and starring Jenifer Lewis alongside Cedric the Entertainer and Niecy Nash, the new Audible comedy centers on Dot (Lewis), a retired teacher navigating marriage, friendships, and unexpected self-discovery in a senior living community. But as Lewis makes clear, the story isn’t about slowing down; it’s about evolving.

“What I’ve learned is to let go of the small things that bothered you before,” Lewis said during a chat with BET Current. “You learn kindness. You learn grace. At my age (I’m 69), we’re all one.”

Dot’s transition into elder community living mirrors that emotional journey. What initially feels like displacement becomes something richer. “When you arrive to a place that will serve as community, you realize you’re going through the same thing,” Lewis explained. “You’re missing your children… you have the same aches and pains… and that makes you closer.” 

Lewis added, “The reward for aging is wisdom. You enjoy life more.”

For Barris, 51, the themes of “Big Age” connect directly to his own life. Turning 50 shifted his outlook in ways he didn’t expect. “50 f---ed me up,” he admitted candidly. “I became proud about it and realized that instead of letting it mess me up, I was going to let it be my mantra. Now’s the time to start really trying to live again.” 

That spirit of renewal is what drew Barris to the audio format. He believed the medium allowed actors like Lewis to fully inhabit their characters without distraction. Lewis praised his collaborative approach, noting that Barris helped shape Dot’s emotional depth. “He’s always been a great asset,” Lewis said of Barris’ talent. “He’s like, ‘Give me another one that way… Put some compassion on this line,’” she said. 

Barris chose all veterans for his leads. With Lewis, Cedric, and Nash, he knew he was onto something. He said, “With these performers, there was something really special. And once we got into the studio and actually saw it, I was like, there is absolutely something.” 

That something is a cute and funny audio tale of the drama, the fun, and the growth of aging. “These people are very vibrant. They live, and Dot starts to, too. She comes around slowly, but surely. And I think that's the fun of the series.” Lewis said.