Mike Epps Recalls Awkward ‘Next Friday’ Debut

Mike Epps, a beloved comedian and actor, recently shared a hilarious behind-the-scenes story from the set of “Next Friday.” He recalled the initial awkwardness of his very first scene in the 2000 sequel, admitting that the moment wasn’t met with the laughter he expected.

Finding the Funny in Film

Appearing on Carmelo Anthony’s “7 PM In Brooklyn” podcast, Epps discussed his career and his significant role as Day-Day in the “Friday” franchise. He explained that transitioning from stand-up comedy to film acting presented a unique challenge. “I was so motherf–kin’ nervous,” Epps confessed about his first scene.

He remembered performing his lines, only for the director to call “cut” with no laughter from the crew. Even veteran actor John Witherspoon seemed unimpressed. Epps recalled approaching Ice Cube, expressing his concern: “Man, they ain’t laughing, bro.”

Ice Cube’s Comedic Guidance

Ice Cube, who created the “Friday” franchise, offered Epps some crucial advice. “It ain’t time. I’ll let you know when it’s time to be funny,” Cube told him. Epps realized that in movies, not every line is meant to be a punchline; some lines serve to advance the plot. This distinction was a hard lesson for the comedian, who was used to always being “on” during his stand-up routines.

Once Cube gave him the signal, Epps’s performance took off, solidifying his place as a beloved character. The scene in question involved his character, Day-Day, reacting to his car being keyed and subsequently getting pepper-sprayed, a moment that ultimately won over the cast and proved Epps was the perfect fit for the role.

The Future of the ‘Friday’ Franchise

Epps also confirmed that Aaron McGruder, the creator of “The Boondocks,” has joined the writing team for the long-awaited final “Friday” film. Epps, Ice Cube, DJ Pooh, and McGruder were recently in Rome working on the script. Epps is confident that this installment could be the best one yet, promising that Day-Day will be “actin’ a fool.”