Bernie Mac, the late comedy legend, is remembered not only for his humor but also for his close bond with his daughter, Je’Niece McCullough. Je’Niece was born in 1978 to Bernie and his wife, Rhonda, in Chicago. Despite Bernie’s fame, Je’Niece initially had mixed feelings about being featured in her father’s comedy routines. However, over time, she has come to see it as a badge of honor and a tribute to her father’s legacy.
Tragically, Bernie Mac passed away in 2008 due to complications from pneumonia, leaving behind Je’Niece and Rhonda. Since then, Je’Niece has been dedicated to honoring her father’s memory and legacy. She has pursued a career as a counselor, with a focus on helping people work through grief. Je’Niece holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in mental health counseling, highlighting her commitment to making a positive impact on others’ lives.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Je’Niece is also a mother to her daughter, Jasmine, whom she shares with her ex-husband, Theartris Childress III. Despite their divorce, Je’Niece remains devoted to her daughter and cherishes the special bond they share. Reflecting on her parenting experience, Je’Niece has spoken out about her father’s firm and old-fashioned parenting style, which she acknowledges was a result of his desire to instill values and discipline in her upbringing.
Je’Niece has also been candid about her father’s battle with sarcoidosis, a condition that ultimately contributed to his declining health. In honour of Bernie Mac’s legacy, Je’Niece launched the Bernie’s Daughter Podcast on what would have been her father’s 66th birthday. The podcast serves as a platform to share stories and memories of Bernie Mac, featuring interviews with collaborators and friends, including Dee Dee Davis, Cedric the Entertainer, Mo’Nique, and Tiffany Haddish.
Despite the challenges and hardships she has faced, Je’Niece McCullough continues to carry on her father’s legacy with grace and resilience. Through her various endeavours as a counselor, public speaker, and podcast host, she honours the memory of Bernie Mac while making a positive impact on those around her. Je’Niece’s journey is a testament to the enduring love and bond between a father and his daughter, transcending boundaries of fame and time.