Bernie Mac, one of America’s most beloved comedians, continues to inspire and touch lives more than a decade after his passing.

Recently, his daughter, Je’Niece McCullough, tearfully shared a heartfelt update about her father’s health struggles in his final years, bringing new attention to his legacy and the challenges he faced.

A new documentary series, “Black Comedy in America,” hosted by Tiffany Haddish, Ryan Davis, and Chris Spencer, is set to debut on Vice, exploring the profound impact of Black comedians.

Bernie Mac’s influence is a central theme, with his daughter participating in the series and sharing personal insights into his life and final days.

Bernie Mac passed away on August 9, 2008, at the age of 50, due to complications from pneumonia. However, the root of his health decline was sarcoidosis, a rare inflammatory disease that severely damaged his lungs and immune system.

Je’Niece revealed that her father had been on oxygen for the last four years of his life, and by the end, his lung capacity was so diminished that doctors considered a lung transplant.

Despite these struggles, Bernie continued working, filming projects like “Ocean’s 13,” “Soul Men,” and the last seasons of “The Bernie Mac Show.” His appearance changed due to the steroids he took to manage his illness, but he never let his health challenges overshadow his passion for comedy.

The news of Bernie Mac’s passing shocked fans and the entertainment world. Many were unaware of the severity of his illness until after his death. His sister-in-law, Mary Ann Grossett, explained that while Bernie’s sarcoidosis had been in remission, his immune system remained weak, making him vulnerable to pneumonia.

She recounted his final days in the hospital, where he spent weeks in intensive care and required a ventilator. Despite efforts to revive him, Bernie ultimately succumbed to cardiac arrest.

Bernie Mac’s funeral drew thousands of mourners, including celebrities like Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, Samuel L. Jackson, and even a letter from Barack Obama.

His wife, Rhonda, reflected on their long marriage and the deep bond they shared since their teenage years. She described him as her best friend and expressed how difficult it was to lose someone who had been her partner for over 30 years.

Je’Niece, determined to honor her father’s legacy, launched a podcast titled “Bernie’s Daughter” on what would have been his 66th birthday.

Through this platform, she shares memories and lessons learned from her father, ensuring his wisdom and humor continue to inspire others. She recalled how Bernie told her not to celebrate his birthday anymore, but she felt launching the podcast was a fitting tribute to his enduring influence.

Bernie Mac’s journey from Chicago’s comedy clubs to Hollywood stardom was driven by his love of making people laugh, not by a pursuit of wealth. He often said that success would follow if you focused on being the best version of yourself. Though he is deeply missed, Bernie Mac’s legacy of laughter, resilience, and family devotion lives on through his loved ones and the countless fans he touched.