Mike Epps responded Monday to mounting criticism over remarks in which he said men should not be celebrated simply for coming home after doing time in prison. In a message on Instagram, the comedian and actor insisted his statements were misunderstood and reaffirmed his support for reform.
During a prior interview, Epps said that “celebrating someone simply for being released from jail is the wrong journey to celebrate.” He added that there is “no reward to coming home after 30 years … you’re a failure,” according to his critics.
Clarifying the Intention
In his Instagram video, Epps said he did not mean to diminish the pain or struggle of people who served time. Instead, he said, the issue is about what message society sends to children. “We don’t want to send a message to the kids saying ‘prison is great,’” he asserted.
He stressed that he has “always been a part of reform” efforts. Epps warned that celebrating incarceration too readily risks normalizing prison life. “I don’t think that’s cool,” he added, referring to the idea of glorifying someone being released after decades inside.
The backlash grew after Epps shared his views on a recent interview with rapper Jim Jones. Some listeners interpreted his words as dismissive of those who have paid their debt to society. In his defense, Epps said that his comments were being taken out of context.
He also clarified earlier remarks regarding food stamp benefits. Epps said his intention was to encourage people to break the cycle of dependence.
In that conversation, Epps argued that reliance on SNAP and similar aid can lead to unhealthy habits. He told hosts he was “actually glad” some cuts to food stamp benefits happened, because “some of us need to not be on food stamps … it’s a trickle-down effect.”
Epps emphasized that he stands with people who seek second chances, but said he believes we should celebrate growth and change—not merely the fact that someone served time. “There’s a difference between coming home and coming home better,” he said.