Rickey Smiley is a legendary comedian, actor, author, television host, and award-winning radio host of the top-rated, nationally syndicated The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, for which he won the Marconi Award (radio equivalent of the Oscar) for Best Radio Personality. His most recent book, Sideshow: Living with Loss and Moving Forward with Faith (HarperCollins), shares his personal journey in coping with the grief from the death of his eldest son from drug addiction.
The book brings a much-needed perspective on how mental health stigmas and drug addiction impact the Black community and society at large. His first comedy special in over a decade, FOOL-ISH, will premiere on Hulu on May 30. It was shot in his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama at the iconic Lyric Theater. Using recent experiences from his life and his trademark humor, Rickey will forge an even deeper connection with his audience through this special.
A comedian for more than thirty years, Rickey is constantly performing across the country on his own theater tour and makes special appearances on the REAL TALK Comedy Tour as well as the Martin Lawrence-hosted LIT AF Tour. Rickey's tours often include a live band which he accompanies as an accomplished pianist and organist. Some of his fan favorite characters include "Mrs. Bernice Jenkins," "Lil' Daryl," "Joe Willie," and "Beauford." Rickey starred in the stand-up specials, Rickey Smiley: Open Casket Sharp and Comedy Central Presents: Rickey Smiley, and released eight best-selling albums, including the number one comedy album, Rickey Smiley: Prank Calls 6. On the big screen, Rickey costarred in the Nick Cannon film Miracles Across 125th Street, and he has been featured in urban classics including All About the Benjamins, Friday After Next, and Baggage Claim.
