Category Archives: Comedians M by First Name

Mike Epps

MIKE EPPS is generating an extraordinary amount of buzz among his peers for being not only one of the funniest comic actors in town, but also for his burgeoning dramatic talent.

Mike-Epps

Mike recently starred in and produced the Netflix comedy “The UpShaws.” The show is based on his life of growing up in Indiana and taken from his 2018 Harper Collins autobiography Unsuccessful Thug. The book is written by Mike about his life and childhood; growing up in poverty and how comedy saved his life.

He was recently seen in the Amazon feature “Troup Zero” starring opposite Viola Davis, Allison Janney, and Jim Gaffigan; and in the A24 film “The Last Black Man in San Francisco” which both premiered at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival.

Mike Epps

In 2019, his fifth stand up special “Just One Mike” premiered on Netflix. Last fall, he was seen opposite Eddie Murphy in the comedy “Dolemite is my Name” which was nominated for Golden Globe, Broadcast Film Critic Awards and a NAACP Image Award.

Mike was seen in the HBO-Emmy Winning biopic “Bessie ” based on Bessie Smith, played by Queen Latifah. The film chronicles how Smith overcame her tempestuous personal life to become one of the most acclaimed performing and recording artists of the 1920s and ’30s, earning the nickname Empress of the Blues. Mike plays Richard Morgan, a bootlegger and romantic interest to Bessie Smith. The film also won a Critics Choice Award for “best mini- series/ movie” as well as a Primetime Emmy for “ Television Movie or Limited Series.”

Mike Epps

Mike was seen in three seasons of the Starz series “Survivor’s Remorse” produced LeBron James and Mike O’Malley which he won a 2016 NAACP Image award for “Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series” for his portrayal as Uncle Julius. In 2011, he was awarded an NAACP Image Award for “Best Supporting Actor” for his role in the Sony Pictures film, “Jumping the Broom.” He continued to receive critical praise for his dramatic turn in 2012 with “Sparkle,” opposite Whitney Houston and Jordan Sparks.

In 2016 he further pursued his dramatic side with two important roles: starring opposite Forest Whitaker and Anthony Mackie in the Lionsgate thriller, “Repentance,” being released through Lionsgate/Codeblack Entertainment., followed by the independent Nina Simone biopic, “Nina,” starring Zoe Saldana. In “Nina,” he plays the legendary Richard Pryor, who opened for the singer in the early 60’s.

He has recently entered the tech space with the first interactive game ‘button’ made by Amazon for the Alexa called “Sounds Fun with Mike Epps” The amazon button features Mike making hilarious sound effects with his voice. The sound effects included in “Sounds Fun” will range from the obvious to the absurd, such as a “lawn mower” or “helicopter” to “Donald Trump getting a haircut.” Every day a new and different sound will be released, making each game a unique experience for the players. Epps will also serve as the game’s judge, providing a comedic mix of friendly encouragement and snarky banter.

He is also currently on a national stand up tour and in 2015 his “Mike Epps; Don’t Take it Personal” was seen on Netflixs. In 2009, Mike headlined his hugely successful stand-up special, “Mike Epps: Underrated and Never Faded,” and in 2011 introduced the world to new comedic talent with, “Mike Epps Presents…,” both which aired on Showtime. He also released his first comedy rap album called “Funny Bidness: Da Album.” The album featured Snoop Dogg, Kid Rock, and Slim Thug to name a few. That year also marked the release of his comedy DVD “Funny Bidness.” With his undying love for hip-hop, Mike hosted the BET Hip-Hop Awards from 2009-2012.

Mike Epps

Since 2000, Epps steadily climbed his way up the stand-up comedy ranks when he was recognized by a national audience for appearing on HBO’s Def Comedy Jam (which, years later, he would go on to host).

During a performance at LA’s Comedy Store, Epps caught the attention of Ice Cube. This led to the first of three feature films they would do together: the cult hits “Next Friday,” “Friday after Next,” and “All About the Benjamins.” Other features include the Hangover franchise, “Girls Trip” “Faster,” “Hancock,” “Lottery Ticket,” “Next Day Air,” “Roll Bounce,” “The Fighting Temptations”, the Resident Evil franchise, “Bait”, “How High,” “Dr.Dolittle 2”, “Talk to Me”, and “Guess Who?”

Epps has been seen in over 40 cities and 3 continents live doing standup.

Marvin Hunter

Comedian Marvin Hunter

Marvin Hunter was a stand out on Bounce TV’s Off The Chain. He has been a featured comedian on morning radio shows with Steve Harvey and Rickey Smiley plus he has toured with Mike Epps.

Marvin H. was born and reared in Vicksburg, MS, a city known as “The Red Carpet City of the South”, where Southern Hospitality is still alive and well. An observant child and early opponent of political correctness, his young opinions were given freely to adults (and almost anyone else who would listen), but were mostly returned to him just as freely at the end of a belt. Butt whippings only strengthened his crusade to investigate and uncover foolishness wherever it resided. He became known for exposing any & all absurdities of family, friends, and the human experience…hence his lifelong motto,

Marvin H

“Don’t Knock Foolishness…It’s Nourishment for Funny.”

Although not the class clown in high school, Marvin H. instead found a secret amusement in planting seeds of mischief into the impressionable minds of any would-be attention or thrill seeker within earshot. Being the silent catalyst of funny classroom disruptions always gave him a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

After high school he took this attitude along with him during a brief stay in college where after just a few months he was informed that his unique talents were no longer needed. He then made the decision to move on to the United States Navy where he served 20yrs, 9days, 8hrs, & too many minutes. He was a welder and catfish plate aficionado!

He has traveled to every corner of the globe while serving his country and has witnessed his fair share of foolishness…and foolishness is exactly what he has been sharing across the country for the last 6 years served up with a shrewd intellect, unapologetic approach, blended with a Southern charm.

Marvin H. is indeed “The Onliest One Doing it Today” and is a bona-fide must see!

Grumpy Uncle, Marvin Hunter

Michael Colyar

Michael Colyar Logo

From Venice Beach to Venice, Italy…
He is Hard to Ignore and Impossible to Forget!

He is the multi-talented Michael Colyar, actor, comedian, and author. Michael is no stranger to work as he is still packing out shows in major cities night after night. His wit, charm and unique sense of style has been captivating audiences since the 80’s.

Michael consistently performed every weekend, 5 shows a day on Venice Beach and was rightfully dubbed the “King of Venice Beach” while performing 9 years straight.

Michael Colyar

His fans can’t get enough of him, “he’s real” “down to earth” “a giver”, they say. Michael’s philanthropic legacy extends beyond his $100K win from Star Search of which he gave 50% to the homeless. Today Michael still finds the time to share laughter with those in need in shelters, rehabilitation centers, schools, and military bases.

Michael Colyar is best known for his starring roles in Blackish, House Party III, Norbit, The Princess & The Frog, and his role as Mr. Whitaker on the hit television series “Martin”.

He is currently performing his one man play called “Michael COLYAR’S Momma’s” and will be launching a 100 plus city tour that has caught the attention of major television, cable, and streaming networks.

Mike Goodwin

Mike Goodwin - Playful

re·fresh·ing (riˈfreSHiNG) adj.
1. Serving to refresh or reinvigorate someone.
2. Welcome or stimulating because new or different.

In an industry where vulgarity is commonplace, a refreshingly funny entertainer has emerged with the class, style, sincerity and professionalism of a Southern gentleman. Considered “one of the brightest young minds in comedy,” Mike Goodwin has a heart to bring strength and healing through joy. That’s why he’s dedicated his comedic gift and wit to a style and delivery that is as clean as his bowtie. Good, guilt-free laughs are guaranteed. Mike’s engaging and hilarious discussions about everyday life will have you laughing about his wit and repeating his adages long after his performance.

Dispensing laughter medicine since his stand up debut at a 2005 New Year’s Eve service opening for Akintunde, “The Bowtie” has shared stages with John Gray, Taylor Mason, Spanky Brown, Marcus D. Wiley, Sister Cantaloupe, Robert G. Lee, Willie Brown and Woody, Thor Ramsey, and Small Fire and Ron G.

The Camden, SC native’s comedy has received rave reviews at showcases for the Official Christian Comedy Association (OCCA) and the Christian Comedy Association (CCA). Mike has recorded for BET, The Word Network, Black Family Channel, and Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), and hosted Akintunde’s “Rebirth of Comedy” tour. He has been a featured artist on the Radio One, One Love Gospel Cruise and toured with Pastor Donnie McClurkin to host the Perfecting Music Conference in seven cities across the United States. Mike has also been featured on Akintunde’s Brutally Honest “God’s Trying to Tell You Something” short film, and on comedy DVDs “The Heavy Hitters of Christian Comedy” and “Who is Bishop February?” Serving as a writer and actor in the “It’s Time 2 Laugh” Internet comedy sketch series broadcasted to millions on StreamingFaith.com, he hosted and performed in shows for a 40-city tour for the series. He has also been featured in StreamingFaith.com’s “Joke of the Day” segment along with other nationally known Christian comedians. Mike co-hosts “The Akintunde Show,” a nationally syndicated radio show, and is the host of Pure Funny TV.

Mike’s act is family friendly and will make your event enjoyable and unforgettable. New, different, and reinvigorating, Comedian Mike Goodwin is refreshingly funny.

Matt Rife

Born and raised in a small town outside of Columbus Ohio, Matt first hit the stage at only 15 years old and never looked back. Through social media he befriended some of the biggest names in the business who immediately spotted his talent and encouraged him to continue growing as an artist.

Having opened for comedians like Mike Epps, DL Hughley, Ralphie May, Finesse Mitchell, Tommy Davidson, Dane Cook, Erik Griffin, Tony Rock, Bill Bellamy, and DeRay Davis, Matt has gained the respect of stand-up veteran and audiences alike. Matt is the youngest male ever to be a regular performer at the World Famous Laugh Factory in Hollywood.

Matt Rife is one of the hottest up-and-coming stand-ups in comedy. His comedy is refreshingly genuine and quick witted. Performing since the age of 15 in Columbus, Ohio;  started his career opening for comedians such as Dane Cook, Ralphie May, and DeRay Davis.

Matt Rife on Wild n Out

Matt had his television debut when he became the youngest cast member ever on MTV’s “Wild N Out”. He performed on the show for 4 seasons before moving on to hosting MTV’s reboot of “TRL”. Matt also appeared on “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”, “Fresh Off The Boat”, MTV’s “The Challenge”, BET’s “North Of The 10”.

Rife recently finished competing in NBC’s new comedy competition show “Bring The Funny” and released his very first Hour Comedy Special titled “Only Fans” on YouTube! Matt is now based in Los Angeles and headlining his own tour across the country. Don’t miss his charmingly naïve performance! 

Matt Rife at 17

Mack Bootsy

Ferris Barber @ Comedy Show 2Creative Loafing magazine has dubbed him the Drum Major of Comedy! Mack Bootsy fires up any room where he performs.

APPEARENCES
Bet Comic View
» 1998- Los Angeles, CA- The Normandy Casino
» 1999- Atlanta, GA- Atrium
» 2000- Atlanta, GA- Center Stage
» 2001- New Orleans, LA- The Orpheum Theatre
» 2002- Miami, FL- Jackie Gleason Theatre

Colleges
» Duke University, Durham, NC » Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA
» Morris Brown, Atlanta, GA » Clark College, Atlanta, GA
» Jacksonville State, Jacksonville, AL » Ft. V.S. University, Fort Valley, GA
» U.T. Martin, TN
»South GA Technical College, Americus, GA » West Georgia University, Carrolton, GA

Movies & Television Military Bases
» Momma Flora’s Family- CBS » Ft. Campbell
» Comic X-Scape- WB 36 Atlanta, GA » Ft. Stewart
» American Rap Makers- UPN 69 Atlanta, GA » Ft. Hood
» “Get Down On It” the movie, Atlanta, GA
» “Mo Music” the pilot, Atlanta, GA