Bernie Mac was an American stand-up comedian, actor, and producer who was beloved for his quick wit and infectious laugh. He made a name for himself in television and film and was known for his iconic roles on the Bernie Mac Show and in the Ocean’s Eleven films. His life was cut short in 2008, but his legacy lives on.
Early Life
Bernie Mac, born Bernard Jeffrey McCullough, was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 5th, 1957. He was raised in a large family of 10 children and was the oldest of his siblings. He attended Chicago Vocational Career Academy, where he played basketball, and he graduated with a degree in electrical engineering in 1975. After graduating, Mac joined the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in Alabama and worked as a boom operator on KC-135 Stratotankers.
After leaving the military, Mac returned to Chicago and started performing stand-up comedy. He was a regular at the Comedy Store in Los Angeles and was the first African-American comedian to appear on the HBO special “Def Comedy Jam.”
Career Highlights
Mac’s career took off after his appearance on “Def Comedy Jam.” He landed his own HBO special, “Midnight Mac,” and became a regular fixture on talk shows and television specials. He made appearances in films and on television shows, but his biggest role came in 2001 when he was cast in the Fox sitcom “The Bernie Mac Show.” The show ran for five successful seasons and earned Mac several Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.
Mac’s biggest film role came in 2001 when he was cast in the remake of “Ocean’s Eleven” alongside George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon. He reprised his role in the two sequels, “Ocean’s Twelve” and “Ocean’s Thirteen.” Mac also starred in the films “Mr. 3000,” “Guess Who,” and “Soul Men.”
Legacy
Bernie Mac passed away on August 9th, 2008 due to complications from pneumonia. He was 50 years old. Mac’s death was a shock to the entertainment industry, and many of his colleagues paid tribute to him. His influence is still felt today, and his performances in films and television remain iconic. Mac was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2012 and was inducted into the Chicago Walk of Fame in 2015.
Bernie Mac’s legacy lives on through his iconic roles in television and film. He was a beloved actor, comedian, and producer who will forever be remembered for his quick wit and infectious laugh. His influence and impact can still be felt today, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
