# Bernie Mac Passed 17 Years Ago: Family Confirms Long-Held Suspicions

Bernie Mac, born Bernard Jeffrey McCullough on October 5, 1957, in Chicago’s tough South Side, became a comedy legend whose sudden death in 2008 at age 50 left fans reeling.

Seventeen years later, in 2025, his wife Rhonda McCullough is finally revealing the heartbreaking truth about his final days, confirming what many suspected—Bernie was battling far more than the public knew while still making the world laugh.

Growing up in poverty, Bernie faced early hardships with his mother Mary, who died of cancer when he was 16, followed by the loss of his brother and father. Comedy became his shield, a way to survive pain and bring light to darkness. Starting in Chicago clubs like the Cotton Club, Bernie honed his raw, honest style, inspired by greats like Richard Pryor.

His wife Rhonda, whom he married in 1977 at 19, supported him through years of odd jobs—janitor, bus driver—while he chased his dream. Their bond, lasting nearly 30 years, and their daughter Janice, fueled his drive to leave a legacy.

Bernie’s breakthrough came in 1990 with the Miller Lite Comedy Search, followed by his iconic 1992 “Def Comedy Jam” performance, where he fearlessly declared, “I ain’t scared of you.” Small film roles in “Mo’ Money” and “Friday” showcased his depth, while the Kings of Comedy tour with Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, and D.L.

Hughley became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $36 million. His sitcom, “The Bernie Mac Show,” premiered in 2001, blending humor with real emotion drawn from raising his niece and her daughter. The show earned Emmy nominations and critical acclaim for its authenticity.

Yet, behind the laughter, Bernie fought sarcoidosis, a rare lung disease diagnosed in 1984. He hid the severity, even claiming remission in 2005, while relying on oxygen tanks between movie takes for films like “Soul Men.”

Rhonda watched him struggle, knowing he was dying but refusing to slow down. On July 24, 2008, Bernie was rushed to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago with a high fever and breathing issues. Pneumonia, compounded by sarcoidosis, overwhelmed his weakened immune system. Despite 17 days in ICU on a ventilator, with family by his side, he passed on August 9. Rhonda recalls a chilling cold wind and Bernie’s eyes opening one last time—haunting final moments she can’t forget.

Over 6,000 attended his memorial in Chicago, with tributes from Oprah, Barack Obama, and peers like Chris Rock. Rhonda transformed her grief into action, leading the Bernie Mac Foundation to raise awareness and funds for sarcoidosis, achieving milestones like Illinois’ Sarcoidosis Awareness Month in 2021.

Janice, his daughter, shares her journey through a podcast, balancing her father’s legacy with personal healing. Bernie’s story, now fully unveiled, reveals a man who fought silently to bring joy, leaving an indelible mark on comedy and family.