When you heard “America,” it felt like Bernie Mac was speaking to us in person. He didn’t have to say much, because we could already relate in so many ways with his show.
The Bernie Mac show was different from many other predominantly Black television shows in the early 2000s, as it didn’t force stereotypes just to get a laugh. The show displayed a strong Black family with occasional conflict, but ones we can relate and laugh with. The show taught us real-world lessons.
What also makes Mac special is that the icon is considered one of the kindest and most helpful people to ever take the stage. His colleagues still tell stories of his good energy today.
Comedic legend Michael Coylar praised Bernie Mac for helping him skyrocket his comedy career, along with pointing out that when Mac was on the road, he didn’t go out to clubs, but instead stayed in his hotel room talking to his wife on the phone. Coylar admired how Mac’s integrity for our community, his family, his wife, and God was rare.
Bernie Mac showed us that keeping a strong family bond and uplifting our people can help others grow and stay connected, thus making us closer towards Black liberation. How can his legacy inspire you in your own family relationships?