Few comedians have ever commanded a stage like Bernie Mac. His voice, presence, and no-nonsense attitude made him an unforgettable force in the world of stand-up. One of the most iconic and gut-busting moments of his career came during the Original Kings of Comedy Tour, where he tackled a topic that had audiences howling with laughter: misspelled tattoos.
The joke is simple in premise but brilliant in execution. Bernie Mac, with his trademark delivery, dives into how people proudly walk around with tattoos that don’t even say what they think they say. From misspellings to completely butchered words, Bernie calls it out with raw honesty and that unmistakable “I ain’t scared of you” attitude.
“Why would you get something on your body forever… and not even spell-check it?” he asks the audience, his face full of disbelief and judgment — the good kind, the kind that makes you laugh until your stomach hurts. He goes on to imitate the way some folks try to make it sound deep, all while clearly flaunting a mistake that’s inked into their skin for life. It’s classic Bernie — taking a real-world observation and turning it into a comedy masterclass.
The bit is hilarious, sure — but it’s also a reflection of what made Bernie Mac so powerful on stage. He had a unique ability to blend truth with comedy. He wasn’t just making fun of tattoos; he was shining a light on how people sometimes value trends over thinking things through. And he did it without ever sounding preachy. Just funny, real, and undeniably Bernie.
The Original Kings of Comedy, directed by Spike Lee, brought together four of the biggest names in Black comedy — Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, and Bernie Mac. But Bernie stood out. His set was raw and fearless. He didn’t dance around topics, he hit them straight on, and his “misspelled tattoos” bit is a perfect example of his gift: saying what everyone else was thinking, but funnier.
Years after his passing, Bernie Mac’s comedy still hits just as hard. This clip continues to circulate online, a testament to his timeless humor and cultural impact. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering him for the first time, Misspelled Tattoos is a must-watch. It’s more than a joke — it’s a slice of Bernie’s genius.
Rest in peace, Bernie Mac. A true King of Comedy. 👑
About The Author
