When Karlous Miller and Chico Bean of the 85 South Show pulled up on Angie Martinez, the energy was instant loud, raw, hilarious, and deeply rooted in love for the culture. In a conversation that spanned everything from their Wild ‘N Out come-up to viral walkouts and why they still grind 10 years in, the trio delivered a masterclass in authenticity, hustle, and Black media excellence.
Here’s the full breakdown of this unforgettable link-up between the Voice of New York and the kings of independent comedy.
🎉 10 Years Strong: A Decade of the 85 South Show
Karlous and Chico are clear: this journey wasn’t handed to them. With no corporate backing, the 85 South Show was built from scratch from the tour van to the top of YouTube trending pages.
“Nobody gave us money we built this ourselves.”
They reflect on their growth as a celebration of Black creative ownership, emphasizing the importance of betting on yourself and building a brand that feels like home.
🛫 Wild ‘N Out Origins: How They Linked
Their chemistry? Undeniable. The duo first connected during auditions in NYC for Wild 'N Out, and they knew they had something special.
“I don’t know what they’re doing… but me and you getting on TV.”
Wild 'N Out became their comedy bootcamp, training them to think quick, hold space, and stand out in a room full of talent over 40 cast members at a time.
📺 Breaking Free: No 360, No Strings
They showed major love to Nick Cannon, crediting him for encouraging them to remain independent rather than signing away their brand.
“Wild 'N Out is like comedy college… it’s where we learned to do this for real.”
Now, they run Channel 85, their own media platform, and continue to tour cities nationwide with sold-out live shows.
🔥 The Rick Ross Mystery Walkout
Of course, Angie had to ask about that viral moment when Rick Ross abruptly left their show mid-interview.
Their response? Still confused. Still laughing.
“We thought it was going fine!”
It turned into a recurring bit: “Guess Why Rick Ross Left.”
To this day, no explanation… but Ross still sends them cookies. 🍪
🧠 Real Talk: Advice for Creators
In true 85 South fashion, they kept it real:
“Viral moments fade. Longevity comes from authenticity.”
Their message to new creatives: Be different. Be you. Focus on community, not clout.
❤️ Why They Still Love the Game
Behind the jokes is a deep sense of purpose. The guys get emotional talking about how their show has helped fans through grief, breakups, and mental health battles.
“People came to our show pregnant… then brought the baby back after it was born.”
This isn’t just content it’s culture that heals.
🏛️ Banned from The Apollo?!
For the first time publicly, they told the full story behind being banned from the legendary Apollo Theater a wild incident involving a security misunderstanding.
They asked Angie (and NYC) to help them get the ban lifted so they can bring the 85 South energy back to Harlem.
🎮 Game Time: Check It or Let It Slide
Angie hit them with a rapid-fire segment of relationship red flags, oat milk etiquette, and messy barbers. Their back-and-forth banter proves why they’re a dynamic duo with unmatched timing and chemistry.
🎬 What’s Next for 85 South
The hustle continues:
- More live tour stops in major cities like Chicago, Detroit, New Orleans & NYC.
- New stand-up specials (some with Kevin Hart’s production company)
- A new movie in the works
- More shows dropping on Channel 85
This episode wasn’t just jokes it was a celebration of friendship, freedom, and the power of building your own lane.
If you haven’t tapped into the 85 South Show yet, now’s the time. And if you already know? You know.
Watch the full episode now on YouTube.