Comedian Mike Epps Apologizes for Nicki Minaj and Trump Jab

Epps walked back his controversial comments made during a stop on his comedy tour.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Comedian and actor Mike Epps found himself in hot water after making comments about rapper Nicki Minaj and her relationship with former President Donald Trump during a stop on his 'We Them Ones' comedy tour. Epps later deleted an Instagram post where he apologized to both Minaj and her husband Kenneth Petty, stating he may have had one too many drinks before the show.

Why it matters

Epps' comments about Minaj and Trump drew strong reactions from fans, highlighting the ongoing political tensions and controversies surrounding the rapper. This incident underscores the risks comedians face when making edgy jokes, especially about high-profile public figures.

The details

During his Louisville show, Epps launched into a bit suggesting Minaj and Trump were sexually involved. A fan in the crowd took offense, prompting Epps to address the heckler. In a now-deleted Instagram post, Epps apologized to both Minaj and her husband, saying he may have had one too many drinks before the show.

  • Epps made the controversial comments during a stop on his 'We Them Ones' comedy tour in Louisville, Kentucky.

The players

Mike Epps

A comedian and actor currently on his 'We Them Ones' comedy tour.

Nicki Minaj

A popular rapper who has recently aligned herself with former President Donald Trump, drawing criticism from some.

Kenneth Petty

Nicki Minaj's husband.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States.

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What they’re saying

“You know I'm a comedian. Sometimes I get on that stage, you know, I have a little drink, and I go wild.”

— Mike Epps, Comedian (Instagram)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the risks comedians face when making controversial jokes, especially about high-profile public figures like Nicki Minaj and Donald Trump. It also underscores the ongoing political tensions and debates surrounding Minaj's recent alignment with the former president.