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Rickey Smiley chatted with comedian Mike Epps, who landed the role of Richard Pryor in the Nina Simone biopic. Epps also landed the highly coveted role of Pryor in the forthcoming biopic, but it looks like we’re going to have to wait for the Pryor bipoic to get a glimpse of Epps playing the comedic genius. During the interview, Epps revealed that there’s been cut from the Nina Simone cast. Poor Mike! He’s not too bummed though, there’s a consolation prize in playing Pryor as the lead.

MUST READ: Why Nina Simone Wouldn’t Want Zoe Saldana To Play Her

However, there is someone that many vocal internet thugs who would rather see Saldana disappear into motherhood bliss than play Nina. Critics against Saldana as Simone have not only speculated about her lack of depth as an actress to carry the meaty role, but they have complained about her skin being a little too light. Simone’s daughter, Lisa Simone Kelly said in an interview with The Grio, “My mother was raised at a time when she was told her nose was too wide, her skin was too dark. Appearance-wise this is not the best choice.”

Maybe those same critics should turn their attentions to Mike Epps as Richard Pryor. While this is an epic move in the funny man’s career, we wonder: can he play a character of such depth, like Pryor? We’ll see!

Watch the exclusive video of Mike Epps here!

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The grand return of the Melanin Awards amplifies and honors the finest Black-owned beauty brands with honest reviews, and discusses the evolution of beauty in Hip-Hop culture.