Chicago street named after comedian Bernie Mac

[February 29, 2012]  CHICAGO (AP) -- A sign bearing the name of the late comedian Bernie Mac has been raised over a street in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood.

About 200 people, including his widow Rhoda McCullough, daughter Je'Niece McCullough and the Rev. Jesse Jackson, gathered Tuesday on a corner near the home where he grew up.

Je'Niece McCullough says she hopes renaming the street Bernie Mac Street reminds people "they can do whatever they want to do in life."

Mac, born Bernard McCullough, died in August 2008 at age 50 from pneumonia complications, after suffering from sarcoidosis, an autoimmune disease.

The comedian is best known for his stand-up performance in the Original Kings of Comedy, a tour that showcased several popular contemporary black comedians, and the hit comedy series "The Bernie Mac Show."

[Associated Press]

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