King of Comedy Bernie Mac Dies at Age 50

One of our beloved comedians Bernie Mac born Bernard Jeffrey McCullogh died Saturday, August 9, 2008 in a Chicago area hospital.

Mac suffered from sarcoidosis, an inflammatory lung disease that produces tiny lumps of cells in the body's organs, but had said the condition went into remission in 2005. According to Bernie Mac’s publicists he died from complications due to pneumonia.

Bernie Mac was one of the Original Kings of Comedy. His fellow Kings were Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, and D.L. Hughley. He toured the country in this blockbuster hit show selling out concerts everywhere. The film was directed by filmmaker Spike Lee and filmed in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Even though Bernie Mac had been working in comedy for several years, it was his exposure on Russell Simmons Def Comedy Jam that opened a variety of doors.

Bernie Mac appeared on television sitcoms such as Moesha before landing his very own show. The Bernie Mac show premiered in 2001 on the Fox television network. It’s series ending in 2006.

He starred in films such as The Players Club, Mr. 3000, and Guess Who with Ashton Kutcher. Bernie Mac is probably better known for his role in Oceans’ 11, 12 and 13.

One of my favorite roles he’s ever played; was the role of the janitor in the movie Pride alongside terrific actor Terrence Howard.

I had the pleasure of reading Bernie Mac’s autobiography titled, “Maybe You Never Cry Again.” It is one of the most inspirational books you’ll ever read.

It’s filled with struggle, determination, and triumph. It would probably shock most people at how long and hard Bernie Mac had to work to get to where he wanted to be.

The obstacles he had to overcome losing his mother at the early age of 16. Being knocked down and getting back up all the while remaining a loyal and devoted husband and father.

Some on of my favorite quotes by Bernie Mac were:

“Bust your head till the white meat show.”
“I ain’t scared of you mother@%!*s.”
“I swear for Lord.”

Bernie Mac will be deeply missed by the entertainment community as well as fans alike. But no one will miss him more than his family whom he loved so much.

He is survived by his wife Rhonda McCullogh, daughter Je’Neice and granddaughter Jasmine.

Condolences nationwide go out to the Mac family. May he rest in peace.