Mike Epps Brings “We Them Ones Tour” to Chicago, Celebrating Black Comedy at a Sold-Out Arena

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Marshelle Sanders
Marshelle Sanders
Marshelle R. Sanders is a reporter for The Chicago Defender with deep roots in Chicago, IL, and the nearby suburb of Bellwood, IL. Her journalism has been featured in esteemed publications such as Felix Magazine and Eventnoire. In addition to her reporting, Marshelle is an influencer behind "The Beverage Library," a brand that combines her passions for beverages and books to promote a relaxed social lifestyle. She is also a skilled mixologist. Marshelle holds degrees from Triton College and Governors State University.

The We Them Ones Comedy Tour has quickly become one of the most talked-about live entertainment experiences in the country, blending star power, cultural relevance, and nonstop laughter into a sold-out arena phenomenon.

On Saturday, April 25, at Wintrust Arena, the tour was headlined by legendary comedian and actor Mike Epps and featured a powerhouse lineup that reads like a who’s who of modern Black comedy.

The tour also highlights Chicago natives such as Mojo BrookzzJust Nesh, and Fab Monroe, with Just Nesh representing the city on stage that night, adding a hometown connection that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.

Hosted by Tony Roberts, the tour also features fan favorites DC Young FlyKarlous Miller, and Chico Bean, a trio whose chemistry has been sharpened through their wildly successful live shows, appearances on Wild ‘N Out, and their hit podcast, The 85 South Show. Together, they bring an electric energy that resonates across generations. The lineup is further stacked with comedians like JayskiTK Kirkland, and Navv Greene.

Spanning more than 30 cities, the nationwide arena tour has taken over major venues from coast to coast, including stops in Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

In April 2026 alone, the tour energized the Midwest with performances in Milwaukee and St. Louis, culminating in a highly anticipated, sold-out show at Wintrust Arena. Due to overwhelming demand, the tour will return to Chicago for its final stop on Saturday, May 30th.

What makes We Them Ones stand out in a crowded comedy landscape is its ability to merge traditional stand-up with the viral, fast-paced humor of today’s digital age. Many of the comedians on the lineup developed their hard work and following through platforms like Instagram and YouTube, as well as live podcast tours, creating a direct connection with fans long before they hit the stage.

The result is a show that feels both personal and larger-than-life, where inside jokes, cultural commentary, and improvisation collide.

Behind the scenes, the production is also making history. Panel Plus, a Black-owned and Black-led LED company led by Team Lead William Dagen IV, is redefining the tour’s visual experience. In partnership with BMN EntertainmentCEO Blake, the company has rapidly emerged as a growing force in the industry.

The company’s rapid growth has peaked and reached milestones, reflecting both innovation and determination, as well as the increasing demand for Black-owned production companies operating at a high level.

Chicago songwriter and music artist John Blu, who also came out in support, shared that the experience of connecting with the tour and being present in a sold-out arena was truly a blessing.

“Being in the right space and gaining that exposure is key, and moments like these, sometimes unexpected, highlight just how impactful the tour has become. With new music, writing, and production projects already in the works behind the scenes, the momentum extends far beyond the stage.”

More than just a comedy show, We Them Ones has evolved into a cultural movement, one that celebrates Black humor, creativity, and resilience. It creates a space where audiences can come together, laugh freely, and see themselves reflected in the stories being told.

With improvisation and crowd interaction, Mike Epps anchors the night with seasoned storytelling, blending classic stand-up with sharp observations about life, relationships, and culture.

Beyond the laughs, the tour represents a shift in how comedy is produced and consumed. It highlights the power of independent production and the importance of ownership in entertainment. By bringing together established names and rising talent, the tour creates opportunities for the next generation while honoring those who paved the way.

The tour continues its run through 2026, wrapping at the end of May, and its impact extends far beyond the stage, blending punchlines with connection, culture, and community.

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