Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club - Interview with Mike Epps

Release Date: March 4, 2025

In this engaging episode of The Breakfast Club, hosts DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, and Charlamagne Tha God sit down with legendary comedian Mike Epps to discuss his enduring legacy in comedy, his latest projects including the film "Last Friday", his experiences touring with new material, and his role in mentoring the next generation of comedians.

1. Welcoming a Legend

Timestamp: [02:25] – [02:36]

DJ Envy kicks off the conversation by lauding Mike Epps as a "legend" in the comedy world.

• Charlamagne Tha God: "A legend, God damn it."
• DJ Envy: "The brother Mike."

2. Defining Legendary Status Beyond Age

Timestamp: [02:36] – [04:46]

The trio delves into what it truly means to earn "legendary" status, emphasizing accomplishments over age.

• Jess Hilarious: "Social Security age."
• Charlamagne Tha God: "I don't think it's about age. I think it's about what you've done."
• Mike Epps: "I do feel like I put a lot of young comics on... They act like they don't know me after they get on."

Mike reflects on his journey from performing alongside giants like Steve Harvey to now uplifting young talent, underscoring the importance of contribution over chronological age.

3. Supporting and Mentoring Young Comedians

Timestamp: [04:52] – [09:32]

Mike discusses his commitment to nurturing emerging comedians, sharing anecdotes about helping them transition into acting and succeeding in the entertainment industry.

• Mike Epps: "You need to make sure that when you get an acting opportunity, you can act. So while you doing stand up and you coming up, go to some acting classes."
• Jess Hilarious: "You're teaching them while you're teaching."

Mike emphasizes the reciprocity in mentorship, highlighting how mentoring also fuels his growth and secures his legacy.

4. The “We Are the Ones” Comedy Tour

Timestamp: [09:41] – [24:49]

The discussion shifts to Mike's current venture, the "We Are the Ones" comedy tour, which features a blend of established and up-and-coming comedians. Mike praises his promoter, Blake, and the diverse lineup that includes talents like Country Wayne, Lil Duvall, Corey Holcomb, and Bubba Dub.

• Mike Epps: "These young dudes are better. It's a young, happy, hopping tour."
• Charlamagne Tha God: "How did it become like a staple tour?"
• Mike Epps: "Shout out to my man Blake... these are the best young comics coming up in the game right now."

Mike recounts the challenges of performing in cities like Chicago, known for their discerning audiences, and offers advice on handling tough crowds and refining one's act.

5. Transitioning into Film and Television

Timestamp: [24:50] – [35:50]

Mike shares insights into his ventures beyond stand-up, including production work and acting roles. He touches upon his involvement in the production of "Good American Family" with Ellen Pompeo and discusses the upcoming film "Last Friday."

• Mike Epps: "I produced that show... It's about a young girl who played to be an adult."
• Charlamagne Tha God: "Have you seen the script for Last Friday?"
• Mike Epps: "We gonna bring in the new comics... it's gonna be a good ass."

Mike underscores the importance of diversifying his portfolio and creating opportunities within the Black community in entertainment.

6. Personal Life and Fatherhood

Timestamp: [14:59] – [29:21]

The conversation takes a personal turn as Mike talks about his family life, including raising seven children and supporting his daughter's acceptance into NYU.

• Mike Epps: "I didn't graduate from high school... my daughter is running around NYU, and that's the same place I ran around doing comedy."
• Jess Hilarious: "You have that iconic legend aging."

Mike reflects on his journey from struggling in school to achieving academic and professional success, highlighting the pivotal role his family has played in his life.

7. Addressing Industry Challenges and Race

Timestamp: [29:22] – [35:50]

Mike candidly discusses the systemic challenges faced by Black comedians and entertainers, drawing parallels to historical injustices and advocating for greater representation and opportunities.

• Mike Epps: "We cannot get away from race. We cannot get away from slavery."
• Charlamagne Tha God: "We have to keep shedding the light on the positive part of that."

Mike calls for a more balanced portrayal of Black individuals in media, emphasizing their multifaceted talents beyond prevailing stereotypes.

8. Future Projects and Collaborations

Timestamp: [35:50] – [37:52]

Looking ahead, Mike teases upcoming collaborations, including working with Tiffany Haddish on a new show inspired by "The Upshaws," and discusses his aspirations for the "Last Friday" movie.

• Mike Epps: "We are going to keep some entertainment in your face."
• Charlamagne Tha God: "Have you seen the script for Last Friday?"
• Mike Epps: "Chris Tucker, we need you, baby boy. Come on back."

Mike expresses enthusiasm for fostering new talent and expanding his influence in the entertainment industry.

9. Promotional Segment: “We Are the Ones” Tour Dates

Timestamp: [37:52] – [38:09]

The episode concludes with Mike Epps promoting his "We Are the Ones" tour, listing upcoming dates across various cities.

• DJ Envy: "Detroit on the 7th."
• Mike Epps: "Come on."

Listeners are encouraged to attend the tour to witness the convergence of veteran and emerging comedians.

Notable Quotes

• Mike Epps: "Every show is different... different energy, different cities."

  [26:00]

• Mike Epps: "It's about empowering the youth... putting black men in a position where they can feed their family and build legacies."

  [35:50]

• Jess Hilarious: "What's wrong with that? Why are people upset about being called older? That's a gift to age and to have what you have."

  [08:55]

Conclusion

This episode of The Breakfast Club offers a comprehensive look into Mike Epps' enduring impact on comedy and entertainment. Through candid discussions, personal anecdotes, and insightful reflections, Mike underscores the importance of legacy, mentorship, and perseverance. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, this interview provides valuable perspectives on navigating the entertainment industry while staying true to one's roots.

Listen to the full episode on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.