From Rumor to Fact: Bernie Mac Dies at the Age of 50

Just one week ago there were several media outlets pronouncing Bernie Mac, 50, dead from pneumonia. At the time his publicist Danica Smith stated that it was just a horrible rumor and that Mac was making a full recovery to come home. Just moments ago his publicist Smith just made a statement from Los Angeles that Bernie Mac has been pronounced dead shortly Saturday morning after a long hospitalization of pneumonia at a Chicago area hospital. What turn out to be first a rumor now has come to reality. His wife Rhonda was by his side when he passed. Mac also leaves behind a daughter name Je'Niece and a granddaughter name Jasmine.

According to the Associated Press the comedian suffered from sarcoidois. Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory lung disease that produces tiny lumps of cells in the body's organs. In 2005 the condition went into remission. This disease can cause you to be acceptable to things like pneumonia. His publicist stated that this did not play a role in his death.

Mac whose real name is Bernard Jeffrey McCullough was one of the "Original Kings of Comedy". His originality and style attracted millions of fans across the world. Mac got his big break when he performed on the HBO hit show 'Def Comedy Jam". Aside from a comedian Mac was a talented actor as well. He played in several movies such as "Ocean's Eleven "and its two sequels with Brad Pitt and "Guess Who" with Ashton Kutcher, Mac also had starring roles in "Bad Santa," "Charlie's Angels" and his own show called "The Bernie Mac Show" on Fox Television which became a hit from 2001 to 2006. Mac received two Emmy nominations for the hit TV show. Comedian Steve Harvey stated in an phone interview," He (Bernie) was a great family man, father and husband" Steve Harvey and Mac had been long time friends for quite some time who both were featured in the "Original Kings of Comedy" along with D.L. Hughley and Cedric "The Entertainer".

The largest African American parade called the Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic held its annual parade in Chicago, Illinois today which was dedicated to his memory. Bernie Mac will definitely leave a legacy behind. America has lost one of the best comedians and Mac will be greatly missed. For a successful man to die at the height of his career leaves the world stunned and in mourning. R.I. P. Bernie Mac -August 9, 2008.