Oakland declares May 19 “Paul Mooney Day”
Oakland City Councilmember Carroll Fife, who proposed the resolution, called the late comedian an “Oakland treasure.”
The City of Oakland will pay tribute to the late Paul Mooney by giving him his own day.
According to TMZ, May 19 — which is the day the former “Chappelle’s Show” star passed — will be declared as “Paul Mooney Day” from now on. The outlet obtained legal documents that were filed by Oakland City Councilmember Carroll Fife who proposed to name a day after the comedian for his “uncompromising social and political commentary and iconic contributions to Black arts and entertainment.”
The resolution describes Mooney as “an Oakland treasure — a trailblazing comedian, writer, producer, film and television actor with a career spanning four decades” and says his legacy is “a shining example of the talent in Oakland.”
Fife said actress and comedian Luenell has thrown her support behind “Paul Mooney Day” and the two have already discussed plans for next year, including events to pay tribute to Mooney, as well as other Oakland legends who are still alive.
As REVOLT previously reported, Mooney passed away at the age of 79 after suffering from a heart attack in his home. Journalist Roland Martin revealed the news on Twitter, writing that he was notified about the passing from Mooney’s cousin.
He also revealed that the comedian was suffering from dementia. “Rudy Ealy, the cousin of [Paul Mooney], told me that Paul had been suffering with dementia for some time and had been living with him,” Martin tweeted. “Rudy said Oakland paramedics valiantly tried to save him after suffering a heart attack this AM.”
Several celebrities, including Kevin Hart, Tiffany Haddish and Eddie Murphy, are planning to honor Mooney during a special show at Hollywood’s Laugh Factory on Thursday (May 27). Guests will reportedly tell jokes and talk about some of their favorite memories with the Good Hair actor. Jamie Maseda, the comedy club’s founder and owner, said Mooney was one of the first comedians to perform when the Laugh Factory opened in 1979.