Bernard Jeffrey McCullough, known to the world as Bernie Mac, was born on October 5, 1957, in the tough neighborhood of Chicago's South Side. His journey from local stand-up stages to becoming a beloved figure in American comedy is a story of talent, perseverance, and an unyielding work ethic.
Quick Information About Bernie Mac
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bernard Jeffrey McCullough |
| Stage Name | Bernie Mac |
| Date of Birth | October 5, 1957 |
| Place of Birth | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Date of Death | August 9, 2008 |
| Place of Death | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Age at Death | 50 years |
| Occupation | Comedian, Actor, Voice Actor |
| Years Active | 1977–2008 |
| Notable Works | "The Bernie Mac Show," "Ocean's Eleven," "Bad Santa" |
| Awards | Primetime Emmy Award, American Comedy Award, NAACP Image Awards |
| Known For | Stand-up Comedy, Sitcoms, Film Roles |
| Major Tours | Kings of Comedy Tour |
| Philanthropy | Bernie Mac Foundation (Sarcoidosis research) |
| Spouse | Rhonda McCullough (m. 1977) |
| Children | Je'Niece McCullough |
| Grandchildren | One granddaughter |
| Signature Style | Bold, brash comedy with a strong stage presence |
| Catchphrases | "Who you wit'?," "I ain't scared of you," "America" |
| Books | "I Ain't Scared of You: Bernie Mac on How Life Is" |
| Film Debut | "Mo' Money" (1992) |
| TV Debut | "Moesha" (1996) |
| Final Film Role | "Soul Men" (2008) |
| Education | Chicago Vocational High School |
| Influences | Richard Pryor, Redd Foxx, Eddie Murphy |
| Legacy | Influential comedian, memorable TV and film roles |
| Health Issues | Sarcoidosis |
| Cause of Death | Complications from Pneumonia |
| Television Success | "The Bernie Mac Show" ran for 5 seasons |
| Stand-Up Specials | HBO's "Midnight Mac," "The Original Kings of Comedy" |
| Voice Roles | Zuba in "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" |
| Music Video Appearance | Janet Jackson's "Go Deep" |
| Stage Performances | Frequent performer at comedy clubs across the US |
| Military Service | None |
| Favorite Sport | Baseball |
| Favorite Team | Chicago White Sox |
| Charity Involvement | Active in community outreach and youth programs |
| Posthumous Honors | Inducted into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame (2010) |
| Comedy Style | Observational, anecdotal, often autobiographical |
| Breakthrough Role | "Def Comedy Jam" (1992) |
| Favorite Comedians | Redd Foxx, Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy |
| Career Highlights | "The Bernie Mac Show," Kings of Comedy, "Ocean's Eleven" trilogy |
| Memorable Quotes | "I ain't scared of you mother****ers," "I'm from the old school" |
| Influence on Comedy | Paved the way for future generations of comedians |
| Parents | Mary McCullough (mother) |
| Siblings | Lost both his brother and mother at a young age |
| Early Jobs | Worked in various odd jobs, including as a janitor and a mover |
| Hobbies | Enjoyed playing golf |
| Religious Beliefs | Raised Baptist |
| Favorite Food | Soul food |
| Favorite Actor | Sidney Poitier |
| Inspirations | His mother, who encouraged him to pursue his dreams |
| Personal Challenges | Faced poverty and hardship growing up in Chicago |
| Early Comedy Influences | Watching Bill Cosby and Richard Pryor on TV |
| Marriage Duration | Married to Rhonda McCullough for 31 years until his death |
Chicago Roots
Growing up in a rough part of Chicago, Bernie Mac faced numerous challenges. His mother, Mary McCullough, was a strict disciplinarian who instilled in him the values of hard work and resilience. Tragically, she passed away when Bernie was just 16, leaving a profound impact on his life.
First Stand-Up Experience
Bernie Mac's first foray into comedy happened at a young age. At 19, he performed at the Chicago Comedy Club, earning a meager $50 for his set. This experience fueled his passion for comedy.
The Kings of Comedy
Bernie Mac's big break came with the 1999 Spike Lee film, The Original Kings of Comedy. Alongside Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, and D.L. Hughley, Bernie showcased his unique comedic style. The film grossed over $38 million at the box office, a testament to its massive appeal.
The Bernie Mac Show
In 2001, Bernie launched The Bernie Mac Show on Fox. The show was a critical and commercial success, running for five seasons and earning Bernie an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. The show's syndication deals and DVD sales reportedly earned Bernie over $10 million.
Net Worth
At the peak of his career, Bernie Mac's net worth was estimated at around $15 million. This included earnings from his stand-up tours, television shows, and film roles.
Real Estate Investments
Bernie Mac invested wisely in real estate. He owned a luxurious home in the affluent Frankfort area of Illinois, valued at $1.7 million. He also had properties in California and Nevada.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Family Man: Despite his hectic schedule, Bernie Mac was a devoted family man. He married his high school sweetheart, Rhonda McCullough, in 1977. They had one daughter, Je'Niece, who often spoke about her father's deep love for his family.
Philanthropy: Bernie Mac was known for his charitable efforts. He established the Bernie Mac Foundation in 2007, dedicated to raising awareness and funding research for sarcoidosis, a disease he personally battled. The foundation has raised over $1 million for research and support.
Midnight Mac
Before his mainstream success, Bernie hosted a late-night show on HBO called Midnight Mac. Though short-lived, it showcased his raw comedic talent and helped him build a loyal fanbase.
Film Career
Bernie Mac's film career included roles in popular movies like Ocean's Eleven (2001), Bad Santa (2003), and Guess Who (2005). His role in Ocean's Eleven alone earned him $5 million.
Voice Work
Bernie also lent his voice to animated characters, including Zuba in Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (2008). His voice work added another dimension to his versatile career.
Sarcoidosis Battle
Bernie Mac was diagnosed with sarcoidosis in 1983, a condition that affected his lungs. Despite his health challenges, he continued to perform and entertain, rarely letting his illness impact his work.
Final Years
Bernie's health deteriorated in the late 2000s. He was hospitalized in July 2008 due to complications from pneumonia and passed away on August 9, 2008. His death was a significant loss to the entertainment industry.
Posthumous Honors
After his death, Bernie Mac received numerous posthumous honors. In 2012, he was inducted into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame. His legacy continues through reruns of his shows, films, and the ongoing work of the Bernie Mac Foundation.
Influence on Comedians
Bernie Mac's influence on the comedy world is immeasurable. Comedians like Kevin Hart and Tiffany Haddish have cited him as a significant inspiration. His fearless approach to comedy and his ability to connect with audiences set a standard for many to follow.
Cultural Icon
Bernie Mac's impact extended beyond comedy. He became a cultural icon, known for his honesty, humor, and heartfelt performances. His work continues to resonate with fans around the world.
FAQs about Bernie Mac
Q1: Who was Bernie Mac?
A: Bernie Mac was an American comedian, actor, and voice actor known for his work in stand-up comedy, television, and film. He was one of the Original Kings of Comedy and starred in the popular TV series "The Bernie Mac Show."
Q2: What was Bernie Mac's real name?
A: Bernie Mac's real name was Bernard Jeffrey McCullough.
Q3: When and where was Bernie Mac born?
A: Bernie Mac was born on October 5, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Q4: What are some notable movies Bernie Mac starred in?
A: Bernie Mac starred in several notable movies, including "Ocean's Eleven," "Ocean's Twelve," "Ocean's Thirteen," "Mr. 3000," "Bad Santa," and "Guess Who."
Q5: What was "The Bernie Mac Show"?
A: "The Bernie Mac Show" was a television sitcom that aired from 2001 to 2006. The show was loosely based on Bernie Mac's stand-up comedy material and his real-life experiences. It earned him critical acclaim and several awards.
Q6: What awards did Bernie Mac win during his career?
A: Bernie Mac won several awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series, and he received numerous nominations for his work in television and film.
Q7: What was Bernie Mac's contribution to stand-up comedy?
A: Bernie Mac was known for his bold, brash, and hilarious stand-up comedy. He was a key figure in the comedy scene and was part of the successful "Kings of Comedy" tour, which also featured comedians Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, and Cedric the Entertainer.
Q8: How did Bernie Mac pass away?
A: Bernie Mac passed away on August 9, 2008, due to complications from pneumonia. He had been suffering from sarcoidosis, an inflammatory disease that affects multiple organs, particularly the lungs.
Q9: What is Bernie Mac's legacy?
A: Bernie Mac's legacy includes his influential stand-up comedy, memorable film roles, and his groundbreaking television series. He is remembered for his unique comedic style, his ability to connect with audiences, and his contributions to the entertainment industry.
Q10: Is there any foundation or charity in Bernie Mac's name?
A: Yes, the Bernie Mac Foundation was established to raise awareness and funding for research on sarcoidosis, the disease that affected him. The foundation continues to work towards improving the lives of those impacted by the disease.
Conclusion
Bernie Mac's life and career were marked by extraordinary achievements and significant contributions to comedy and entertainment. From his humble beginnings in Chicago to becoming one of the most beloved comedians of his generation, Bernie Mac's legacy is a testament to his talent, determination, and the indelible mark he left on the world. His story is one of triumph over adversity, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.