Rickey Smiley is an accomplished stand-up comedian, television host, actor, and radio personality, known for his distinctive prank calls and engaging on-air presence. After serving as host for BET’s ‘ComicView’ in 2000 and making prominent appearances on HBO’s ‘Def Comedy Jam,’ Rickey Smiley went on to establish a multifaceted career as a highly sought-after stand-up comedian, television host, actor, and nationally syndicated radio personality. His live stand-up routines quickly became recognized for masterfully integrating role-play of original, beloved characters such as ‘Bernice Jenkins’ and ‘Lil’ Daryl,’ a signature comedic style that later became central to his distinctive and widely popular prank phone calls, captivating audiences across the country. A significant turning point in Smiley’s career arrived in April 2004 when he secured the role of morning show personality for radio station KBFB in Dallas, rapidly building a dedicated listenership.
Expanding his acting portfolio, Smiley also held film roles in the feature films ‘Friday After Next’ (2002) and ‘All About the Benjamins’ (2002), demonstrating his versatility across comedic and dramatic productions. Further broadening his brand, Smiley premiered the popular reality television series ‘Rickey Smiley For Real’ in 2015, offering audiences an intimate and authentic look into his personal and professional life. He has also released several successful albums comprised entirely of his iconic prank calls, further cementing his place in comedy history. In 2017, he authored the critically acclaimed book ‘Stand by Your Truth: And Then Run for Your Life.’ As a highly recognizable and enduring figure in both comedy and radio, Rickey Smiley continues to maintain a consistent and impactful presence across diverse media platforms, leveraging his unique blend of humor and engaging personality for a broad and devoted audience base.