Indianapolis native, comedian and entrepreneur Mike Epps expressed his thoughts on the recent partnership between Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E), who own both the Indiana Pacers and Fever and Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat media company. Epps revealed a sense of disappointment at not being approached for a collaboration himself.
During a recent interview with Power 10.5 The Breakfast Club, Epps discussed his feelings about the Pacers’ decision, particularly given his deep roots in Indianapolis.
“It’s politics,” Epps said, acknowledging the complexities of the entertainment industry. “People outside of this business don’t understand.”
Epps pointed out how he was an ambassador during the 2024 NBA All-Star in Indianapolis, which may have played a part in avoiding ‘ambassador fatigue.’
The comedian highlighted his efforts to support fellow entertainers, mentioning how he reached out to Hart while performing in Philadelphia. He indicated a feeling that the gesture should have been reciprocated.
“Kevin should’ve called me,” Epps said.
Epps’s remarks come in the wake of the PS&E announcement of a multi-year partnership with Hartbeat, which enhances the in-arena experience and creates engaging content for fans.
The collaboration brings Hartbeat’s creative expertise to Pacers games and events.
While acknowledging the business aspect of the decision, Epps also emphasized the importance of unity within the Black entertainment community.
“There’s enough for everybody,” Epps said.
He praised Hart for providing opportunities for up-and-coming comedians. He also expressed a desire for more union among Black entertainers, drawing a contrast with the collaborative nature of the white entertainment sector.
Epps further elaborated on the historical factors that have contributed to divisions within the Black community, citing the legacy of slavery and the “divide and conquer” tactics often used to maintain control.
“It’s in our blood,” Epps said, referring to the systemic issues that continue to impact unity.
Despite any disappointment, Epps made it clear that he focuses on his career and success.
“I’m too old to be talking trash,” Epps said.
He stressed the importance of supporting fellow Black individuals and not being intimidated by their success.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on TikTok @3Noral.
Noral Parham is the multi-media & senior sports reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder, one of the oldest Black publications in the country. Parham has worked with various leagues to provide a diverse perspective in sports, including the Big Ten, Big East, IHSAA, IndyCar, MLB, NHRA, NFL, NBA, WNBA, WWE and the Olympics. Prior to joining the Recorder, Parham served as the community advocate of the MLK Center in Indianapolis and senior copywriter for an e-commerce and marketing firm in Denver.
Applause for Mike Epps for acknowledging his feelings about Kevin Hart’s inclusion in Indianapolis, Indiana Sports, and the entertainment industry related to Black culture. I applaud even louder his level of intelligence and maturity in expressing those feelings and his result. Respect.