Mike Epps stopped by HOT 97 to talk to Nessa about headlining the We Them Ones Comedy Tour in 2026. He opened up about what it means to finally take the last slot on stage after years of hosting, and why this year’s 36-city arena run feels different. They got into how he prepares for back-to-back dates, what young comedians don’t see behind the scenes, and how he approaches mentoring Chico Bean, Karlous Miller, and the next generation.
Mike also reflected on moments in his 30-year career where he thought he “made it,” what stand-up has taught him, and what it feels like to keep evolving in an art form that takes a decade to master. He and Nessa also talked about the iconic Day-Day role in the movie Friday, auditions that changed his life, and why he believes Ice Cube’s advice still guides him today.
Mike shared stories about being booed early in his career, the pressure of New York audiences, and the instinct it takes to survive on stage. They touched on his upcoming TV projects, working with Kenya Barris, what success looks like now as a father, and why he bought a farm back home. Finally, he opened up about legacy, the lessons he hopes his kids hold onto, and what he’d tell his 20-year-old self about business, discipline, and staying around the right people.
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