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Mike Epps
Mike Epps
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Michael Elliot Epps (born November 18, 1970)[1] is an American stand-up comedian and actor. He played Day-Day Jones in Next Friday and its sequel, Friday After Next, and also appeared in The Hangover and The Hangover Part III as "Black Doug". He was the voice of main character Boog in Open Season 2, replacing Martin Lawrence, with whom he starred in the comedy Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins, playing "Reggie", cousin of Roscoe (played by Lawrence). He played Lloyd Jefferson "L.J." Wayne in the Resident Evil films (2004–2007) and O'Neil in the Sony's Spider-Man Universe film Madame Web (2024). He has had starring roles in the sitcoms Uncle Buck and The Upshaws.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Epps was born and raised in Indianapolis, the son of Mary Reed and Tommie Epps.[2][3] In his adulthood, Epps moved to Brooklyn to star in Def Comedy Jam in 1994.[4]

Career

[edit]

Stand-up comedy

[edit]

Epps began his professional career by joining the Def Comedy Jam tour in 1995 and starred in two of HBO's Def Comedy Jam broadcasts.[5]

Acting

[edit]

Epps' first on-screen appearance came in Vin Diesel's second directorial film, Strays in 1997. In 1999, Epps was then cast as Ice Cube's co-star in the sequel, Next Friday. This followed weeks of auditions, after Ice Cube attended a stand-up set Epps did, and then asked Epps to try out for the role of Day-Day Jones.[6] Later that year, Epps had a cameo in 3 Strikes, and supported Jamie Foxx in Bait.

Epps had a voice role in the 2001 film Dr. Dolittle 2 as Sonny the Bear and finished the year with a featured role as comical pimp Baby Powder in How High, starring Method Man and Redman. Epps reunited with Ice Cube in 2002 as the bumbling thief to Ice Cube's bounty hunter in All About the Benjamins, and again re-teamed with Cube in Friday's second sequel Friday After Next. He played Lloyd Jefferson "L.J." Wayne in the films Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004) and Resident Evil: Extinction (2007). Epps also voiced another bear character (Boog) in the 2008 film Open Season 2 after Martin Lawrence declined the role; he previously worked with Lawrence in the comedy Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins (2008), playing "Reggie", cousin of Roscoe (played by Lawrence). He played "Black Doug" in The Hangover (2009) and The Hangover Part III (2013). In 2010, Epps also released a stand-up comedy special, Under Rated & Never Faded, and hosted the 2010 BET Hip Hop Awards.

Epps starred alongside Jordin Sparks and Whitney Houston in the 2012 remake of Sparkle, in his first non-comedic role as the main antagonist, Satin, a stand-up comic by day, an evil and abusive drug kingpin by night, who is engaged in an affair with the titular character's sister. Epps' performance was well received by critics and audiences. In 2014, Epps landed the coveted role of Richard Pryor in a planned Pryor biopic to be directed by Lee Daniels;[7][8] however, the project has remained in development hell. Epps did portray Pryor in the 2016 Nina Simone biopic Nina and in an episode of the HBO drama series Winning Time about the L.A. Lakers.[9]

Epps had a starring role in the 2016 comedy horror film Meet the Blacks and its 2021 sequel The House Next Door: Meet the Blacks 2. He also starred as the title character in the single-season 2016 sitcom Uncle Buck. Since 2021, he has been a main cast member on the Netflix sitcom The Upshaws.

Music

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Epps "hosted" the Jim Jones and Skull Gang album Jim Jones & Skull Gang Present A Tribute To Bad Santa Starring Mike Epps. Epps has also made a song called "Trying to Be a Gangsta" with Pooh Bear.

Epps also hosted G-Unit's 2008 mixtape Elephant in the Sand, appearing on the track "Hollow Thru Him". Epps also has a song called "Big Girls", which came out in 2008. It was originally recorded by Bow Wow featuring Yung Joc. The song is currently on iTunes and can be found on his album, Funny Bidness: Da Album, which was released October 27, 2009. Epps also has featured in rapper French Montana's Mac Wit Da Cheese mixtape, which was released on April 19, 2009. Epps has also featured on the Dom Kennedy song "Intro/Hard Work" on his FutureStreet/DrugSounds mixtape.[10]

Part of his stand-up comedy in Under Rated & Never Faded was sampled for the song "I'm On Everything" by Bad Meets Evil on their first EP, Hell: The Sequel[11] and on the track "Runaway", from J. Cole's second album Born Sinner. Mike Epps was also known in his hometown of Indianapolis as the CEO of Naptown Records.[citation needed] In 2006 he signed local artist Philthyphil.[citation needed] This artist had just been released from prison after serving three years for a drug indictment in which he was the suspected distributor of large amounts of narcotics.[citation needed] The record deal which was reportedly worth $175,000 was later terminated after Phillip "Philthyphil" White was charged with first-degree murder in Oakland, CA in 2007.[12]

Epps has made cameo appearances in many music videos, mostly by hip hop artists, including "Gangsta Nation" (2003) by Westside Connection, "A Bay Bay" (2007) by Hurricane Chris, "No Effort" (2017) by Tee Grizzley,[13] and "Bank Account" (2017) by 21 Savage.[14]

Super Bowl XLVI

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Epps served as the "Super Bowl ambassador" in his native Indianapolis for the 2012 Super Bowl. He was featured in commercials promoting the Super Bowl Village and he made special appearances in the Village during the week of the Super Bowl.[15]

Controversies

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Epps has been criticized by disability campaigners for mocking physically and mentally disabled children in his stand-up act.[16]

On June 1, 2014, Epps purportedly assaulted fellow stand-up comedian LaVar Walker outside of the Uptown Comedy Club. It was stated Epps and two of his bodyguards did this in response to Walker making a parody video about Epps and comedian Kevin Hart. Epps allegedly struck him in the face and kicked him in the stomach and back, while one of the other two men threw the victim's cellphone and crushed his prescription glasses. Atlanta Police issued a warrant for Epps' arrest two days later on June 3.[17]

Around mid-2017, Epps received controversy for bringing a kangaroo onto the stage during one of his shows. Many noted the animal looked distressed, with Epps grabbing and holding it against its will. Epps later apologized, saying it was completely unscripted and that he should have never hurt an animal.[18]

Personal life

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Epps married OWN Network executive and Iyanla: Fix My Life producer Kyra Robinson, in Newport Beach, California, in June 2019.[19][20] He was previously married to Mechelle McCain, whom he wed in July 2006. The pair lived in Beverly Hills, California together until they divorced in September 2017.[21]

Filmography

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Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
1996 Vera's Initiation Simon Short
1997 Strays Mike
1999 Shelly Fisher Esquire Jones TV movie
2000 Next Friday 'Day-Day' Jones
3 Strikes Crackhead
Bait Stevie Sanders
2001 Dr. Dolittle 2 Sonny (voice)
How High Baby Powder
2002 All About the Benjamins Reginald Wright
Friday After Next Day-Day/Old Man with Shotgun
2003 Malibu's Most Wanted Rap-Battle Host
The Fighting Temptations Lucius
2004 Resident Evil: Apocalypse Lloyd Jefferson 'L.J.' Wade
2005 Letter to the President Himself Video
Guess Who The Cab Driver
The Honeymooners Ed Norton
Roll Bounce Byron
2006 Something New Walter
2007 Talk to Me Milo Hughes
Resident Evil: Extinction Lloyd Jefferson 'L.J.' Wade
2008 Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins Reggie Jenkins
Hancock Criminal
The Grand Reggie Marshall
The Adventures of Tha Blue Carpet Treatment Himself (voice) Video
Open Season 2 Boog (voice)
Soul Men Duane Henderson
2009 Next Day Air Brody
The Hangover 'Black Doug'
Janky Promoters Jellyroll
2010 Love Chronicles: Secrets Revealed Black Video
Lottery Ticket Reverend Taylor
Ghetto Stories Lawn Service Worker
Faster Roy Grone
2011 Jumping the Broom Willie Earl
35 and Ticking Harold
2012 Mac & Devin Go to High School Boyce Armstrong
Sparkle 'Satin' Struthers
2013 Repentance Ben Carter
The Hangover Part III 'Black Doug'
2014 School Dance Principal Jimmy Rodgers
2015 Bessie Richard TV movie
Stealing Cars Sheriff Emmit Till
2016 Fifty Shades of Black Ron
Meet the Blacks Carl Black
Nina Richard Pryor
Term Life Darryl Mosley
What Are the Chances? Next Door Neighbor
2017 Girls Trip Absinthe Dealer
Where's the Money Dre
2018 Uncle Drew Louis
Acts of Violence Max Livington
Love Jacked Rufus
Death Wish Dr. Chris Salgado
Supercon Gil Burkhaulter
Don't Get Caught Next Door Neighbor Video
2019 The Last Black Man in San Francisco Bobby
Troop Zero Dwayne Boudraux
The Trap Dutch
How High 2 Baby Powder [22] TV movie
Every StoryTime Animation DimDom (voice) Short
The Cat and the Moon Cal
Dolemite Is My Name Jimmy
2020 A Compton Story Narrator Short
2021 The House Next Door: Meet the Blacks 2 Carl Black
2022 On the Come Up DJ Hype
2023 You People Uncle EJ
Young. Wild. Free. Lamont
2024 The Underdoggs Kareem
Madame Web O'Neil
2025 Trouble Man Ree Ree

Television

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
1995 Def Comedy Jam Himself Episode: "Episode #5.9"
1999 The Sopranos Jerome Episode: "46 Long"
2004 Def Poetry Jam Himself Episode: "Episode #4.7"
Judge Mooney Dion TV series
2005 It's the Shoes Himself Episode: "Quentin Richardson and Mike Epps"
2006 Def Comedy Jam Himself/Host Main Host
The Boondocks Moe "Mo Gunz" Jackson (voice) Episode: "Wingmen"
2007 100 Greatest Songs of the 90s Himself Main Guest
2009 World's Dumbest Himself Episode: "Drivers 12"
2009–2012 BET Hip Hop Awards Himself/Host Main Host
2010 Funk Flex Full Throttle Himself Episode: "Episode #1.2"
2014 Ridiculouness Himself Episode: "Mike Epps"
Real Husbands of Hollywood Himself Episode: "A Blurred 47 1/2 Hours"
2014–2016 Survivor's Remorse Uncle Julius Main cast: Season 1–2; recurring cast: Season 3
2015 That's Racist with Mike Epps Himself/Host Main Host
2016 Uncle Buck Buck Russell Main cast
2017 All Def Movie Awards Himself/Host Main Host
Hollywood Game Night Himself/Celebrity Player Episode: "Keep It Unreal"
Hip Hop Squares Himself/Center Square Episode: "Kent Jones vs. Nick Young"
Star Jay Holland Episode: "The Winner Takes it All"
2018–2022 Mokey's Show Sucks (voice) Recurring cast: Season 4, Guest: Season 5
2020 You Ain't Got These Himself Episode: "Intro"
This Is Stand-Up Himself Episode: "Episode #1.2"
Stumptown Antonio Price Episode: "Reality Checks Don't Bounce"
BlackAF Uncle Ray Episode: "yo, between you and me... this is because of slavery"
2020–2024 Xploshi Entertainment Shorts Various Roles (voice) Recurring cast: Season 2, Guest: Season 3-4 & 6
2021 Superstar Himself Episode: "Richard Pryor"
2021–2026 The Upshaws Bennie Upshaw Main cast
2022 Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty Richard Pryor Episode: "Pieces of a Man"
2023 I'm a Virgo Martisse Recurring cast
2024 ComicView Himself/Host Episode: "DC Young Fly & Tony Roberts"
The Equalizer J.J. Cranson Episode: "All Bets Are Off"

Video games

[edit]
Year Title Role
2017 Cat Quest Teddy Bear (voice)
2019 Cat Quest II
2024 Cat Quest III

Comedy specials

[edit]
Year Title Notes
2006 Mike Epps: Inappropriate Behavior
2009 Mike Epps: Under Rated... Never Faded & X-Rated
2015 Mike Epps: Don't Take It Personal Netflix
2019 Mike Epps: Only One Mike
2022 Mike Epps: Indiana Mike
2024 Mike Epps: Ready to Sell Out
2026 Mike Epps: Delusional

Music videos

[edit]
Year Song Artist
2002 "How Come You Don't Call Me" Alicia Keys
"Nothin'" NORE
"Whatchulookinat" Whitney Houston
2003 "Gangsta Nation" Westside Connection
2004 "Never Forget" Napoleon
2005 "ASAP" T.I.
2006 "What You Know" T.I.
"Why We Thugs" Ice Cube
2007 "Ay Bay Bay" Hurricane Chris
"Baby" Angie Stone featuring Betty Wright
2008 "I'm Lit" Square Off
2009 "I Don't Know Y'all" Young Dro
2011 "Mrs. Right" Mindless Behavior featuring Diggy Simmons
"I'm on Everything" Bad Meets Evil
2013 "Bitch, Don't Kill My Vibe" Kendrick Lamar
2014 "No Flex Zone!" Rae Sremmurd
2015 "Ayo" Chris Brown and Tyga
2017 "No Effort" Tee Grizzley
"Bank Account" 21 Savage
2019 "I'm on 3.0" Trae tha Truth
"Let Bygones Be Bygones" Snoop Dogg
2024 "It's My Ego" Ice Cube

Documentary

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Year Title
1998 Pimps Up, Ho's Down
2011 Phunny Business: A Black Comedy
I Ain't Scared of You: A Tribute to Bernie Mac
2013 Richard Pryor: Omit the Logic
2015 Sneakerheadz
2016 Dying Laughing
2019 I Am Richard Pryor
Napoleon: Life of an Outlaw

Discography

[edit]

Albums

Singles

  • "Big Girls" (2008)
  • "Trying to Be a Gangsta" (2009)
  • "Aint Chu You?" (2009)

Guest appearances

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Mike Epps (born November 18, 1970) is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and producer born in , , into a large family where his comedic talents were nurtured from a young age. He began performing stand-up as a teenager, later gaining early recognition through appearances on in 1995 after moving to , and transitioned into acting with his film debut in Strays (1997). Epps rose to prominence in the comedy film genre with his portrayal of Day-Day Jones in (2000) and (2002), alongside roles in (2009) as Black Doug and voice work in (2001). His career encompasses national comedy tours, production of stand-up specials such as Under Rated... Never Faded & X-Rated (2009) and Only One Mike (2022), and starring as the working-class patriarch Bennie Upshaw in the sitcom (2021–present), loosely inspired by his upbringing.

Early Life

Childhood and Family Background

Michael Epps was born on November 18, 1970, in , , at Wishard Memorial Hospital. He is the son of Tommy Epps and Mary Reed Epps. Epps grew up in a large in the city's near-northside Kennedy-King neighborhood, near 21st Street and Carrollton Avenue, sharing a home with his mother and five siblings. As a child, Epps displayed a natural comedic flair but was also known for his mischievous behavior as a , which led to trouble. He admitted to spending four months in juvenile detention following a prank involving Super Glue. His family provided grounding influences during this period, with his parents encouraging his humor while steering him away from further delinquency; Epps has credited their role in shaping his resilience amid the challenges of a working-class upbringing. In adulthood, Epps honored his roots by initiating efforts to "buy back the block" where he grew up, starting in 2003 with the purchase of his childhood home and his grandmother's residence, where much of the family had been raised, aiming to renovate and restore the deteriorating properties as a symbol of community revival.

Entry into Entertainment

Epps began performing as a teenager in his hometown of , , where his comedic talents were nurtured within a large family environment. In his late teens, he entered a local stand-up contest at an Indiana club, though he did not win; the experience nonetheless solidified his commitment to comedy as a career path. He honed his skills at comedy clubs in before transitioning to professional opportunities. Epps achieved his television debut in 1995 on HBO's , a showcase that propelled his visibility in the stand-up circuit. This appearance marked his entry into broader entertainment, leading to inclusion on the Def Comedy Jam tour and subsequent HBO broadcasts. His early routines, characterized by observational humor drawn from urban life and personal anecdotes, quickly garnered attention in comedy circles.

Professional Career

Stand-up Comedy

Mike Epps entered professional stand-up comedy by joining the Def Comedy Jam tour in 1995, which provided his initial platform for gaining recognition in the comedy circuit. He made his television debut on HBO's Def Comedy Jam that same year, appearing in broadcasts that showcased his raw, urban-inflected humor. Epps has produced several stand-up specials highlighting his style of unfiltered on topics like relationships, personal failings, and . His early special, Under Rated... Never Faded & X-Rated, was released in 2009 and featured his signature raucous delivery. This was followed by the original Don't Take It Personal on December 18, 2015, recorded at the Orpheum Theatre in , where he delivered blistering and raunchy material. Subsequent Netflix specials include Only One Mike in 2019, addressing sexual misconduct, aging, and education with raw candor, Indiana Mike in 2022, drawing from his roots, and Ready to Sell Out in 2024, riffing on , infidelity, and workplace dynamics. Epps also released the Funny Bidness: Da Album on , 2009, compiling stand-up tracks with guest features. He maintains a rigorous touring schedule, with sold-out shows across the U.S., including the ongoing We Them Ones Comedy Tour.

Acting in Film and Television

Epps's acting career began in the late 1990s with supporting roles in independent films, including his debut in the crime drama Strays (1997), directed by . He followed with appearances in 3 Strikes (2000), a about prison life, and (2000), a heist thriller opposite . His voice work started early, providing the voice of the in (2001). A breakthrough came with the role of Day-Day Jones in (2000), a stoner comedy sequel starring , which grossed over $57 million domestically. Epps reprised the character in (2002), earning praise for his comedic timing alongside co-stars and . That year, he also starred as Reggie Wright in the action-comedy (2002), produced by 's company, which featured high-stakes chases and heist elements. Subsequent films included the horror-action Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004) as L.J., a survivor in the zombie outbreak series that earned $51 million in the U.S. Epps expanded into varied genres, playing Ed Norton in the remake (2005) and the real-life DJ in the biographical drama Talk to Me (2007), directed by . He gained wider recognition with a memorable cameo as the drug dealer "Black Doug" in (2009), which contributed to the film's $467 million global box office, and reprised the role in (2013). Other credits include (2008), Lottery Ticket (2010) as Reverend Taylor, (2011), Sparkle (2012) as Satin, and (2009). In recent years, he appeared in (2019) as Jimmy Lynch, a biopic of that received critical acclaim with a 97% score, and The Last Black Man in (2019) as Bobby. Additional films encompass (2018), (2016), and (2024), a sports comedy he co-produced. On television, Epps made a on in 1999. He voiced characters in the animated series The Boondocks (2006) and recurred in (2014–2017) on . Epps led the ABC sitcom (2016), adapting the film with a modern family dynamic. His most prominent TV role is Bennie "Upshaw" Upshaw Sr. in Netflix's (2021–present), a multi-camera about a working-class family in , renewed for multiple seasons and drawing on Epps's roots for authenticity. Guest spots include (2023) as J.J. Cranson.

Music and Additional Ventures

Epps has released rap singles and an album as part of his music endeavors. His output includes the single "Big Girls" in 2008, followed by "Trying to Be a Gangsta" featuring and "Ain't Chu You?" in 2009. On October 27, 2009, he issued his sole studio album, Funny Bidness: Da Album, which integrates comedic elements with hip-hop tracks produced by collaborators including . The project features appearances from artists such as and , reflecting Epps's blend of stand-up persona and rap delivery. Epps has also contributed guest vocals to tracks by others, including Ice Cube's 2024 album Man Down. Beyond music and acting, Epps has pursued focused on community revitalization. In collaboration with his wife Kyra, he launched the "Buying Back the Block" initiative, acquiring dilapidated properties on his childhood block in Indianapolis's Kennedy-King neighborhood to renovate them into units. The effort, which emphasizes Black ownership and generational wealth, provides rentals at rates under $900 per month and was chronicled in an series premiering November 8, 2023. By mid-2025, the couple had purchased at least six homes as part of this project, with plans to extend renovations to include a and for broader economic impact.

Notable Performances

Epps first achieved widespread recognition for his portrayal of Day-Day Jones, the dim-witted pimp and cousin to Ice Cube's character, in the comedy sequel Friday After Next (2002), which emphasized his improvisational humor and physical comedy in scenes involving holiday mishaps and petty crime. The role built on his earlier appearance as the same character in Next Friday (2000), solidifying his association with the Friday franchise known for its urban stoner comedy. In the action-horror films : Apocalypse (2004) and : Extinction (2007), Epps played Lloyd Jefferson "L.J." Wayne, a cocky survivor whose street-smart quips provided comic relief amid outbreaks, marking one of his early forays into mainstream genre cinema beyond pure comedy. His performance as "Black Doug," the unreliable drug dealer in (2009), delivered a standout cameo that highlighted his delivery and contributed to the film's ensemble dynamic, with the role reprised in the sequel (2013). Epps also portrayed in the biopic Nina (2016), capturing elements of the comedian's flamboyant persona during his relationship with , though the film received mixed reviews for its historical accuracy. On television, Epps stars as Bennie Upshaw, the flawed family patriarch navigating addiction and relationships, in the sitcom (2021–present), which has run for multiple seasons and draws on his stand-up persona for authentic blue-collar humor. In stand-up specials, Only One Mike (2021) featured Epps riffing on , aging, and family life in a raw, unfiltered style that resonated with audiences for its observational edge, while Ready to Sell Out (2024) continued this vein with bits on hygiene and workplace dynamics, released amid his ongoing tours.

Developments in the 2020s

In the early , Epps continued to expand his stand-up career with multiple specials. His third special, Mike Epps: Indiana Mike, filmed at the Walker Theatre in , premiered globally on March 29, 2023. This was followed by Mike Epps: Only One Mike in 2021, addressing topics such as and aging. In 2022, he appeared in the ensemble special Snoop Dogg's Fcn Around Comedy Special*. His fourth solo hour-long special, Mike Epps: Ready to Sell Out, released on February 20, 2024, where he discussed personal hygiene, infidelity, and workplace dynamics. Epps maintained an active touring schedule throughout the decade, including the We Them One's Comedy Tour and the Platinum Comedy Tour, with performances extending into 2025 at venues such as the Yaamava' Theater for a live taping on November 8, 2025. In July 2025, he signed with Artists First for management representation, supporting his ongoing comedy endeavors launched since 1995. On the acting front, Epps took on supporting roles in several projects. He portrayed a character in the Max series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty (2022) and appeared in the film (2022). In 2021, he reprised elements of his comedic style in The House Next Door: 2. Additional credits included (2024) and the TV series , where he played Bennie Upshaw. Epps diversified into television production with his wife Kyra Epps through the series Buying Back the Block, which premiered on November 8, 2023. The show documented their efforts to purchase and renovate homes in Epps's childhood neighborhood in Indianapolis's Kennedy-King area, aiming to create and revitalize the community; by December 2023, they had renovated multiple properties on the block. This initiative extended to transforming a 2,100-square-foot house into a retro space by July 2025. In January 2026, Epps appeared on the Club Shay Shay podcast hosted by Shannon Sharpe, addressing past tensions and misunderstandings between them. During the episode, he discussed his early support for Kevin Hart, noting that Hart opened for him and that he sometimes put money in Hart's pocket, but later felt brushed off by Hart as his fame grew, which fueled his own drive. Epps also addressed industry rivalries and competition in comedy, including views on Kevin Hart and Katt Williams, commented on hearing that Chris Tucker was upset about the continuation of the Friday franchise with Next Friday, discussed buying back houses from his childhood evictions as revenge, and addressed the reconciliation of past feuds, including a mock confrontation from 2024 that was resolved non-violently.

Controversies

Comedy Content Criticisms

Epps' stand-up comedy, characterized by raw observational humor on topics including race, relationships, and sexuality, has occasionally faced backlash for material deemed offensive or stereotypical. In February 2024, during a live performance, Epps joked that podcaster Shannon Sharpe had propositioned him sexually to appear on "Club Shay Shay," while implying Sharpe's homosexuality, which Sharpe publicly denounced as false and harmful rumor-mongering designed to exploit gay stereotypes for laughs. Sharpe addressed the bit on his "Nightcap" podcast, expressing frustration over Epps' refusal to retract the claims despite private outreach, though the two later reconciled in person at the NBA All-Star Weekend on February 16, 2024. In January 2026, Epps appeared on Sharpe's "Club Shay Shay" podcast, where they discussed and reconciled over the 2024 incident, and Epps addressed industry rivalries, including his early support for Kevin Hart—who had opened for him but later brushed him off—and his belief that Chris Tucker was upset about the continuation of the Friday franchise in Next Friday. Epps also recounted a past confrontation with Chris Rock, in which Rock approached him saying, "You can’t act rich if you ain’t rich," prompting Epps to reply that he was rich in many ways, while insulting Rock's physical appearance by likening him to a ferret; Epps further stated that he understood why someone might slap Rock, referencing Will Smith's actions at the 2022 Oscars. In December 2016, following a show at the Hollywood Improv, Epps encountered criticism from a fan who alleged homophobia after Epps declined a photo request, claiming it stemmed from the fan's openly gay status; Epps rejected the accusation, stating the denial related to the fan's disruptive behavior rather than orientation, but the incident fueled online debate about his comedic persona's tolerance for LGBTQ-related humor. Epps' 2014 AOL web series That's Racist, which used scripted sketches to probe ethnic stereotypes through exaggerated , elicited mixed responses, with some viewers and commentators arguing it reinforced divisive tropes under the guise of rather than deconstructing them effectively. Epps defended the approach as rooted in authentic stand-up traditions of confronting uncomfortable truths via humor, but critics contended such content risked normalizing biases in an era of heightened sensitivity to racial insensitivity. User reviews of specials like Ready to Sell Out (2024) have highlighted complaints about repetitive or "outdated" material lacking sharp edginess, with some describing jokes on , , and interpersonal dynamics as predictable and insufficiently innovative, though these critiques focus more on execution than inherent offensiveness. Epps has dismissed detractors of his style, emphasizing its unfiltered, instinct-driven appeal to core audiences over polished appeal.

Assault Allegations

In June 2014, comedian alleged that Mike Epps and members of his entourage assaulted him following Walker's posting of a video mocking Epps on . Walker claimed the attack occurred outside a , resulting in injuries including a and cuts, and he filed a police report asserting Epps participated directly. Epps denied involvement in a public statement, describing the video as "disrespectful" but stating he was not present at the scene and had instructed his team to avoid confrontation. No charges were filed against Epps, and the incident was attributed by his representatives to overzealous associates rather than direct action by the comedian. Later that month, in April 2014, female comedian Kyanna Shepherd accused Epps of punching her in the face during an after-party for the premiere of in . Shepherd, who claimed a prior extramarital relationship with Epps, stated the altercation stemmed from a dispute with Epps' wife, Kyra, after which Epps intervened violently. Los Angeles police investigated and referred the case to their unit due to Shepherd's assertions of a personal history with Epps, but prosecutors declined to file charges, citing insufficient evidence. Sources close to Epps countered that Shepherd had become aggressive toward his wife, prompting him to push her away in without striking her. On February 18, 2017, Epps was arrested in New Orleans alongside Thomas Cobb on municipal battery charges after surveillance video captured Epps punching a male tourist three times at Harrah's Casino following a verbal exchange. The victim, a resident, reported approaching Epps excitedly, saying "Oh, Mike Epps!" before being struck without further provocation, sustaining minor injuries. Warrants were issued after the pair initially left the scene; Epps surrendered and was released on $1,000 bond. In August 2017, Epps pleaded no contest to misdemeanor battery, receiving a suspended 30-day jail sentence, six months' , classes, and a $500 fine. Epps did not comment publicly on the incident beyond the legal resolution.

Drug Use Disclosures

In March 2024, comedian and actor Mike Epps disclosed on Club Shay Shay podcast hosted by Shannon Sharpe that he used cocaine extensively during the production of many of his early films, stating, "I've been on drugs, I've been through hell," and admitting he was high on cocaine for "most of my movies." Epps attributed the onset of his substance abuse to the envy and negative reactions from friends following his rise to fame in the early 2000s, which exacerbated feelings of isolation and led to increased drug use as a coping mechanism. Epps recounted receiving direct intervention from rapper and actor Ice Cube during the height of his career, who warned him that his cocaine use was "destroying" himself, a moment Epps later credited with contributing to his recovery efforts. He further reflected that some of his most effective on-screen comedic performances occurred while under the influence, though he emphasized the personal toll, describing periods of profound struggle and "survivor's remorse" tied to the drug-fueled lifestyle. These admissions surfaced amid broader discussions in circles, including Epps expressing concern for fellow comedian ' well-being after Williams' public critiques of peers, with Epps drawing parallels to his own past experiences with . In his February 2024 Netflix special Ready to Sell Out, Epps elaborated on drug-related anecdotes from his career, framing them as cautionary tales without glorification, consistent with his post-recovery stance against . Epps has not detailed legal consequences or formal rehabilitation programs in these disclosures, focusing instead on personal accountability and the hidden prevalence of drug use in Hollywood.

Public Statements on Relationships

In a March 7, 2024, appearance on the "All The Smoke" , Mike Epps reflected on his history of romantic partnerships, stating, "I've never treated a right 100 percent, and now that I'm getting older, I'm realizing, man, you got to treat a right. You gotta be your friend. You gotta not be selfish." He further described treating a properly as "one of my dreams," which drew immediate online criticism for implying inadequate treatment of his then-current , Kyra Epps, whom he had married in 2019. The remarks sparked concerns among fans and commentators about the stability of his marriage, with some interpreting them as an inadvertent admission of ongoing relational shortcomings despite his vows of . Epps responded swiftly on March 7, 2024, via Instagram, issuing a public apology: "I wanna apologize to my beautiful wife for ignorant and reckless [comments] I honor you and my family please forgive me." He elaborated that the podcast discussion pertained to his pre-marriage behavior and personal growth, not his present relationship, emphasizing his commitment to family. Following the incident, Epps temporarily deactivated his social media accounts amid the backlash, later reaffirming his marital bond in subsequent updates. In a June 2025 interview clip shared online, Epps discussed more broadly, highlighting the need for , understanding, and over individual dominance, drawing from his experiences across multiple relationships. He contrasted this with earlier patterns of self-centeredness, aligning with themes from his stand-up routines where he humorously critiques relational dynamics, such as referencing "work husbands" or past infidelities as cautionary tales. These statements underscore Epps's recurring public motif of relational redemption through maturity, though critics from outlets like The Root argued his apology inadvertently reinforced perceptions of inconsistency in his treatment of partners. By February 2025, Epps and Kyra presented a publicly, with supporters framing their persistence as evidence of resilient "Black love" amid scrutiny.

Personal Life

Marriages and Partnerships

Mike Epps was first married to actress Mechelle McCain on July 22, 2006. The couple separated amid allegations of by Epps, with McCain publicly stating in interviews that he had been unfaithful during their marriage. Epps filed for in January 2017 after approximately 11 years of marriage, and the divorce was finalized on September 7, 2017, with a settlement that included significant property division reflecting their accumulated wealth. Following the , Epps began a relationship with Kyra Robinson, whom he met through mutual friends around 2017. The couple became engaged in spring 2018 and married on June 23, 2019, at the Resort at Pelican Hill in . As of 2025, Epps and Kyra Epps have maintained their for over six years, often sharing aspects of their blended family life on . No additional long-term partnerships beyond these marriages have been publicly documented.

Children and Fatherhood

Mike Epps is the father of seven children—six daughters and one son—from multiple relationships. His eldest daughter, Bria Epps, was born in 1993, followed by Makayla Epps in 1999; the other daughters are Moriah Epps, Madison Epps, River Epps, and , the latter born to Epps and his wife Kyra Epps on March 12, 2020. His son, Michael Epps Jr., shares the same parents as . Epps and Kyra Epps announced in July 2025 that they are expecting their third child together, which would bring Epps's total to eight children. Epps has described the arrival of his as a after raising six daughters, noting in a 2023 interview his relief and happiness at finally having a boy. Publicly, Epps emphasizes his role as a provider and active , often posting photos on , including tributes to daughters like Madison for her academic success as a straight-A student. In a January 2026 appearance on the Club Shay Shay podcast, Epps expressed remorse for not being the best father to his oldest daughter Bria during her childhood, stating, "Unfortunately, my oldest daughter didn’t get the best of me because I was too young and I didn’t know what I knew. And I feel so bad about that." He has credited his own large upbringing in with shaping his approach to fatherhood, stressing grounding values amid his career demands. In his comedy routines, Epps incorporates parenting experiences, such as the challenges of supporting a blended .

Works

Film Roles

Mike Epps entered the film industry with a supporting role in the 1997 drama Strays. His breakthrough came in 2000 with the comedic role of Day-Day Jones in , a sequel to the 1995 hit , where he portrayed Craig's dim-witted cousin involved in neighborhood antics and a rivalry with a bully named Joker. He reprised the character in (2002), playing both Day-Day and an elderly man with a during a Christmas Eve burglary plot centered on recovering stolen Santa gifts. Epps expanded into action and horror with the role of L.J., a tough survivor and mercenary, in : Apocalypse (2004), the second installment in the video game adaptation series, where his character joins a group escaping a zombie-infested Raccoon City. He returned to the franchise as L.J. in : Extinction (2007), depicting the character's involvement in a post-apocalyptic convoy battling undead hordes led by the villainous Alice. In (2009), Epps played "Black Doug," a drug dealer who kidnaps the infant son of one of the protagonists during a chaotic bachelor party, a role he briefly reprised in (2013) amid a wolf-related scheme. Throughout the 2010s, Epps took on lead and supporting comedic parts, including starring as Carl Black, a paranoid family man fleeing supernatural threats, in the parody horror film (2016) and its sequel The House Next Door: Meet the Blacks 2 (2021). Other notable roles include Satin, a street-smart ally, in the musical drama Sparkle (2012); Jimmy "Broomhead" Lynch in the biographical comedy (2019), portraying a member of Rudy Ray Moore's entourage; and Bobby, a wise uncle figure, in the indie drama The Last Black Man in (2019). In recent years, he appeared as Uncle EJ in the You People (2023), Lamont in the coming-of-age film Young. Wild. Free. (2023), and Kareem, a coach mentoring troubled youth through football, in (2024). Epps also had a minor role in the superhero film (2024). His filmography encompasses over 40 credits, predominantly in , action, and genres, often leveraging his stand-up for humorous, streetwise characters.

Television Roles

Epps first gained scripted television exposure through guest roles in early 2000s sitcoms, including appearances on in 2003. He also featured in episodes of The Wayans Bros. between 1995 and 1999, contributing to his development as a comedic actor alongside established performers. In animation, Epps voiced Moe "Mo Gunz" Jackson, a veteran and friend of Robert Freeman, in the The Boondocks episode "Wingmen," which aired on October 22, 2006. The character served as a comedic in the episode's plot involving Freeman's wartime reminiscences and modern-day mishaps. Epps secured a recurring role as C.J., the street-smart uncle to aspiring NBA player Cam Calloway, in the comedy-drama . He appeared in all 20 episodes across the series' first two seasons, which premiered on July 10, 2014, and explored the family's navigation of sudden wealth and fame following Cam's lottery-like professional success. His most prominent television role to date is as Bernard "Bennie" Upshaw Sr., the flawed patriarch of a working-class family, in the sitcom . The series debuted on May 12, 2021, with Epps portraying Bennie, a truck driver and high school sweetheart turned husband who grapples with personal shortcomings while striving for family stability amid everyday challenges like , , and economic pressures. As of April 17, 2024, the show has released five parts totaling over 40 episodes, earning praise for Epps' portrayal of a relatable anti-hero in a multi-generational Black family dynamic. More recently, Epps guest-starred as J.J. Cranson in an episode of the action series in 2023.

Stand-up Specials

Mike Epps has produced five solo specials, beginning with his debut hour-long performance in 2009 and continuing with a series of releases. These specials feature Epps' observational humor on topics such as relationships, personal habits, and everyday life struggles, delivered in his signature energetic style. His first special, Mike Epps: Under Rated... Never Faded & X-Rated, premiered in and showcases Epps riffing on various comedic themes in a raucous set.
TitleRelease YearPlatform
Mike Epps: Don't Take It Personal2015
Mike Epps: Only One Mike2019
Mike Epps: Indiana Mike2022
Mike Epps: Ready to Sell Out2024
In Don't Take It Personal (2015), Epps addresses personal anecdotes and social observations. Only One Mike (2019) covers subjects like and aging. Indiana Mike (2022) draws from his roots for material on family and local culture. The most recent, Ready to Sell Out (February 20, 2024), includes bits on hygiene, infidelity, and workplace dynamics.

Music Releases

Mike Epps has ventured into music primarily through comedic hip-hop albums and singles that blend stand-up routines with rap verses, often released alongside his comedy . His musical output debuted in the mid-2000s, featuring collaborations and self-produced tracks emphasizing humor over mainstream rap conventions. These releases, distributed via independent labels and digital platforms, include explicit content addressing relationships, street life, and personal anecdotes. His debut album, Funny Bidness: Da Album, was released on October 13, , by E1 Entertainment, containing tracks like "Ain't Chu You?" and "Dimes & Nicks (A Call From Mike Epps)." The project peaked at number 99 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, reflecting modest commercial reception tied to his fanbase. Notable singles from this era include "Big Girls" in , which gained traction via views exceeding 2.5 million, and "Trying to Be a Gangsta" in , a promotional critiquing gang culture through satirical lyrics. In 2009, Epps released Under Rated... Never Faded & X-Rated, an 18-track accompanying his stand-up special, featuring songs such as "I Love the Hoes" and "Extra Gangsta," clocking in at 54 minutes of uncensored comedic rap. Later singles include featuring in 2014, "We Goin' Out" in 2019, and "First Day of School Fresh (Yaper)" in 2020, distributed digitally via platforms like . Epps also contributed to mixtapes and features, such as hosting Yayo Raw-N-Uncut (G-Unit Radio Pt. 11) in 2005 with .
ReleaseTypeYearLabel/PlatformNotable Tracks
Yayo Raw-N-Uncut (G-Unit Radio Pt. 11)Mixtape (hosted)2005G-Unit/ShadyvilleVarious freestyles
Funny Bidness: Da AlbumAlbum2009E1 Entertainment"Ain't Chu You?", "Big Girls"
Under Rated... Never Faded & X-RatedAlbum2009Independent/Spotify"I Love the Hoes", "Burn Hollywood"
That's What She Said (feat. T-Pain)Single2014IndependentTitle track
We Goin' OutSingle2019SpotifyTitle track
First Day of School Fresh (Yaper)Single2020SpotifyTitle track

Publications and Other Media

Epps authored the memoir Unsuccessful Thug: One Comedian's Journey from Naptown to Tinseltown, published by Dey Street Books, an imprint of , on March 27, 2018. The 288-page hardcover recounts his upbringing in (referred to as "Naptown"), early struggles with crime and incarceration, entry into , and rise in Hollywood, presented in a candid, humorous style reflective of his comedic persona. A edition followed on March 8, 2019. In addition to the book, Epps has made cameo appearances in hip-hop music videos, often leveraging his comedic timing for humorous skits. Notable examples include his role in Chris Brown and Tyga's "Ayo" (2015) and 21 Savage's "Bank Account" (2017). He also appeared in T.I.'s "ASAP" video (2006), alongside David Banner. These appearances align with his collaborations in rap and comedy circles but remain ancillary to his primary acting and stand-up work.

Reception and Impact

Achievements and Successes

Mike Epps achieved commercial success in beginning with his appearance on HBO's in 1995, which launched his national profile and led to multiple televised specials. His tours, including the We Them One's Comedy Tour, have sold out nationwide, attracting over half a million attendees across venues. Epps released his fifth stand-up special, Ready to Sell Out, in 2024, which ranked third on Netflix's Top 10 list shortly after premiere. He has consistently performed to sold-out crowds in arenas and theaters as part of ongoing tours like Mike Epps on the Edge. In film, Epps gained prominence through roles in the Friday franchise sequels, with Next Friday (2000) grossing $59 million worldwide on a $11 million budget and Friday After Next (2002) earning $34 million domestically. These successes built on the original Friday's profitability, establishing Epps as a key comedic draw in urban comedy films. He hosted the BET Hip Hop Awards in 2009 and 2010, earning praise for bridging hip-hop and comedy audiences. Epps received NAACP Image Awards for acting, including a win for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2016 for his role as Uncle Julius in Survivor's Remorse, and further recognition for The Upshaws with a 2024 win and 2025 nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series. The Netflix series The Upshaws, featuring Epps as lead Bennie Upshaw, became a hit, contributing to his sustained television presence alongside earlier roles in Uncle Buck (2016) and Survivor's Remorse. These milestones reflect Epps' versatility and enduring appeal in comedy, with sold-out live performances and streaming successes underscoring his fanbase loyalty.

Criticisms and Cultural Debates

Epps' stand-up comedy has drawn criticism for relying on stereotypical and potentially offensive material, including jokes perceived as homophobic. In , he reportedly referred to a cameraman as a "f*g" during an incident, leading to accusations of homophobia from media outlets and activists. His 2024 Netflix special Ready to Sell Out received mixed audience feedback, with some reviewers and viewers labeling the content as outdated, lacking edge, and overly sanitized compared to his earlier raw style, resulting in a 38% audience score. Earlier specials like Don't Take It Personal () faced similar backlash, described by some as "cringe-worthy" with poor delivery and weak jokes. Public feuds have amplified scrutiny of Epps' interpersonal conduct in the industry. In early 2024, he engaged in a heated exchange with , accusing the podcaster of exploiting negative narratives about Black guests for "click-bait" views and lacking racial diversity in interviews, while Sharpe countered by claiming Epps initiated unwanted direct messages. The dispute escalated with Epps using derogatory nicknames like "" and questioning Sharpe's sexuality publicly, reigniting debates in March 2025 over personal attacks versus accountability in media. Epps has also referenced past resentments toward peers like , framing them within stand-up's tradition of rivalries, as highlighted amid ' 2024 industry critiques, though Epps expressed prayers for Williams rather than direct conflict. Personal controversies have included legal and admissions of substance issues. On February 23, 2025, Epps was arrested in New Orleans for simple battery after allegedly punching a gambler at Harrah's Casino, alongside another individual; video evidence captured the incident, leading to charges against both. In a March 2024 , he disclosed using during the production of multiple films, stating he had "been through hell" but achieved sobriety, prompting discussions on Hollywood's . He later apologized to his wife for remarks on "treating women right" perceived as dismissive of relationship dynamics. Epps has participated in cultural debates on race, , and comedy's boundaries. His 2015 AOL series That's Racist examined the origins of racial tropes through humor, with Epps arguing that laughter could mitigate racism's effects without denying its harms, though critics questioned if such approaches trivialized systemic issues. In broader commentary, he has critiqued modern comedy's constraints under , advocating for authenticity over political correctness and highlighting how amplifies backlash, as discussed in 2021 interviews and recent specials. Feuds like the one with Sharpe extended to debates on gang culture loyalty and media portrayals of Black communities, with Epps defending street-rooted perspectives against perceived exploitation. These exchanges underscore tensions between unfiltered "hood" humor and evolving audience sensitivities.

References

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