Cedric the Entertainer is Cedric Antonio Kyles, an award-winning comedian, actor, and producer who gained fame through The Original Kings of Comedy tour and The Steve Harvey Show. With a net worth of $25 million, he’s starred in the Barbershop franchise, Madagascar films, and currently leads CBS’s hit sitcom The Neighborhood. His three-decade career spans stand-up comedy, television hosting, film production, and voice acting.
Who Is Cedric the Entertainer?
Cedric the Entertainer is an African-American comedian and actor known for being one of the Original Kings of Comedy. His career spans multiple entertainment media, making him one of the most recognizable faces in comedy.
Cedric received his B.A. degree in mass communication from Southeast Missouri State University in 1987 and was hired at State Farm Insurance. Before becoming a full-time entertainer, he worked as an insurance claims adjuster and substitute teacher in Missouri. This grounded beginning shaped his relatable comedy style that connects with everyday audiences.
He settled on his stage name when someone introduced him as “an entertainer, Cedric the entertainer,” and the name stuck. The origin story of his moniker reflects the spontaneous nature of his early comedy career. He had initially considered “Cheerio” but faced legal issues with the cereal brand.
Early Life and Education Background
After junior high school, Kyles and his family moved to Berkeley, Missouri, where he graduated from Berkeley High School in 1982. Growing up in the Midwest gave Cedric a unique perspective that would later inform his comedy routines.
His education prepared him for a traditional career path. Cedric majored in Mass Communication at Southeast Missouri State University and worked as a State Farm insurance claims adjuster before becoming a full-time comedian. This conventional background makes his entertainment success even more remarkable.
He continues his involvement with his high school by awarding a scholarship each year to a graduating senior through the Cedric the Entertainer Charitable Foundation. His commitment to education extends beyond his own experience, demonstrating his dedication to giving back to his community.
Breakthrough in Comedy and Television
In 1995, Cedric moved into acting, auditioning for and receiving his first-ever role as The Cowardly Lion in the 1995 Apollo Theater Revival of The Wiz. This theatrical debut marked his transition from stand-up comedy to acting.
His major television breakthrough came shortly after. He expanded his career by playing Steve Harvey’s friend Cedric Jackie Robinson on The Steve Harvey Show. The sitcom ran from 1996 to 2002 and established him as a television star. His chemistry with Steve Harvey became one of the show’s defining features.
The Original Kings of Comedy tour catapulted Cedric to national prominence. Spike Lee’s 2000 documentary film captured the tour featuring Cedric alongside Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, and Bernie Mac. The success of this comedy tour and film established Cedric as one of the premier stand-up comedians in America.
Film Career and Major Roles
He is also known for his roles in the Barbershop trilogy, the Madagascar trilogy, The Steve Harvey Show, Ice Age, Planes, The Soul Man and The Neighborhood. His film work spans both live-action comedies and animated features.
The Barbershop franchise became one of his signature roles. Playing Eddie, the opinionated barber with strong views, Cedric brought humor and depth to the ensemble cast. The films explored African-American community life with authenticity and warmth.
His voice acting career includes major animated franchises. In the Madagascar series, he voiced various characters, contributing to films that grossed hundreds of millions worldwide. These family-friendly projects expanded his audience beyond adult comedy fans.
Other notable film appearances include Be Cool with John Travolta and Intolerable Cruelty with George Clooney. Working with A-list actors in major studio productions demonstrated his versatility as a performer.
Current Television Success
Currently, Cedric is starring in and executive producing the CBS Television hit comedy “The Neighborhood”. The sitcom premiered in 2018 and has been renewed for multiple seasons. He plays Calvin Butler, a man navigating changing neighborhood dynamics when a white family moves next door.
The show tackles contemporary social issues through comedy. Cedric serves as both the lead actor and an executive producer, giving him creative control over the direction of the series. The Neighborhood has become one of CBS’s successful comedy offerings.
In 2025, Cedric the Entertainer competed on season thirteen of The Masked Singer as “Honey Pot,” where the bees on the mask part of his costume sported his trademark fedoras. His recent television appearances show he continues to embrace diverse entertainment opportunities.
Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship
Beyond performing, Cedric has expanded into business ownership. He owns AC Barbeque, a restaurant that reflects his love for food and community. The establishment serves traditional barbecue fare and has become a popular dining destination.
He also launched Setta Wines, entering the beverage industry. This venture represents his interest in wine culture and provides another revenue stream beyond entertainment work. His business portfolio demonstrates financial wisdom in building wealth beyond acting and comedy.
These entrepreneurial efforts align with his personal brand. By choosing businesses that reflect his personality and interests, Cedric has created authentic extensions of his public persona.
Net Worth and Financial Success
As of 2025, Cedric the Entertainer’s net worth stands at an estimated $25 million. This wealth comes from multiple income sources accumulated over his extensive career.
This wealth has been accumulated over decades of success in stand-up comedy, acting in major films, and hosting television shows. His diversified career approach has provided financial stability and growth opportunities.
Real estate has been part of his investment strategy. The entertainer owned a home in Missouri, United States, between 2000 and 2017. Property investments complement his entertainment earnings.
Personal Life and Family
Cedric is married to Lorna Wells. They have two children, Croix (born 2000) and Lucky Rose (born 2003). He also has a daughter, Tiara (born 1989), from a previous relationship. His family life remains relatively private despite his public career.
He is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi. His fraternity membership connects him to a network of African-American professionals and reflects his college experience.
His trademark style includes signature fedora hats that have become part of his public image. The hats add a distinctive visual element to his appearances and have become synonymous with his brand.
Charitable Work and Community Impact
The foundation’s motto is, “Reaching Out…Giving Back.” The Cedric the Entertainer Charitable Foundation focuses on education and community development initiatives.
His scholarship program provides financial assistance to high school graduates. By supporting students from his hometown, Cedric creates opportunities for the next generation. This commitment to education reflects his own academic background and success.
Community engagement remains important throughout his career. Whether through comedy, acting, or philanthropy, Cedric maintains strong connections to his Missouri roots and the African-American community.
Legacy in Comedy and Entertainment
Over the course of a career spanning 30 years, actor/comedian Cedric “The Entertainer” has solidified his status as one of the world’s premier performers on the stage, in film, and on television. His longevity in entertainment speaks to his talent and adaptability.
The Original Kings of Comedy tour created a lasting impact on stand-up comedy. The success of that tour opened doors for other Black comedians and demonstrated the commercial viability of urban comedy tours.
His influence extends beyond comedy to acting and production. By taking on executive producer roles, Cedric shapes content and creates opportunities for diverse stories in mainstream television.
FAQS
What is Cedric the Entertainer’s real name?
Cedric the Entertainer was born Cedric Antonio Kyles. He adopted his stage name early in his comedy career after someone introduced him as “an entertainer, Cedric the entertainer.”
How did Cedric the Entertainer become famous?
He gained national recognition through The Steve Harvey Show (1996-2002) and The Original Kings of Comedy tour and film in 2000. These projects established him as a major comedy star.
What TV shows has Cedric the Entertainer starred in?
His major television roles include The Steve Harvey Show, The Soul Man, and currently The Neighborhood on CBS. He’s also hosted various television programs and award shows.
How much is Cedric the Entertainer worth?
As of 2025, his estimated net worth is $25 million. This wealth comes from his work in comedy, film, television, and business ventures.
Is Cedric the Entertainer married?
Yes, he’s married to Lorna Wells. They have two children together, and Cedric also has a daughter from a previous relationship.
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