Malcolm-Jamal Warner & Tracee Ellis Ross share the cover of Upscale Magazine’s Dec/Jan 2012 issue.

The co-stars of BET’s Reed Between the Lines talked openly about their onscreen chemistry and the challenges of being compared to television most ‘pristine African-American family ever: the Huxtables.’ Check some excerpts below:

“In our world, it’s always easier for people to put a handle on something so they can grasp what it is like,” says Tracee, acknowledging the unavoidable challenge head on : “If we could in any way, shape or form hold a candle to what Cosby did, represented and was, then we have succeeded.”

Tracee on her chemistry with Malcolm: “I didn’t have a picture in my head of who should be my (onscreen husband) and first moment with him was so palpable… doing scenes with Malcolm does not feel like acting. It’s like it just happens, and I think that’s the magic that people long for.”

Malcolm on his chemistry with Tracee: “We have a great rapport and it’s probably one of the best non-physical affairs I’ve ever had.”

Malcolm shares his final thoughts on the new show: “I think people will definately tune in because of [the value Tracee and I bring to the network], and they’ll walk away feeling that the show is refreshing.” says Malcolm. “This is a show that we can all be proud of. None of us is Bill Cosby, we we’re not trying to recreate Cosby. What we are trying to recreate is the universality and the timelessness.” [source]