James McNair facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James McNair
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McNair in the 2010s
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| Born | May 9, 1952 Peekskill, New York, U.S.
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| Died | June 7, 2014 (aged 62) Cranbury, New Jersey, U.S.
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| Spouse(s) | Deneen |
| Children | 2 |
James McNair (born May 9, 1952 – died June 7, 2014) was an American comedian and writer. He was also known by his stage names Jimmy Mack and Uncle Jimmy Mack. McNair was a good friend and mentor to famous comedian Tracy Morgan.
Becoming a Comedian
James McNair had many different jobs when he was younger. He worked as a caseworker at a shelter for people experiencing homelessness. He also helped people in his community often. He would hold fundraisers and serve food at a local Salvation Army shelter.
McNair was well-known in his hometown of Peekskill, New York. He often volunteered at his church. He also hosted The Original Uncle Jimmy Mack's Amateur Hour. This was a special event that helped local comedians show off their talents.
McNair later decided to become a comedian. This was a tough job that did not pay much money. But it helped him meet other people who wanted to be entertainers. He met Tracy Morgan at the Uptown Comedy Club in Harlem.
When Tracy Morgan joined the TV show Saturday Night Live, McNair often wrote jokes and ideas for the show. He was working as a freelance writer. He was traveling with a group of comedians to help write for Tracy Morgan's "Turn it Funny" comedy tour when he passed away.
A Helpful Mentor
James McNair was a close friend and mentor to Tracy Morgan. A mentor is someone who guides and supports a less experienced person. Morgan's former wife, Sabina Morgan, said they "were very close." She also said McNair was "one of the first comedians that took Tracy under his wing."
Another comedian, Royale Watkins, talked about McNair's role. He said that some comedians like Tracy get famous. But people like Jimmy Mack "energized and fueled" them. He helped keep them going on their journey.
Tragic Accident
On June 7, 2014, James McNair died in a car accident in New Jersey. He was 62 years old. McNair was a passenger in a limousine traveling on the New Jersey Turnpike. The limo was hit from behind by a large truck operated by Walmart. This caused a chain reaction crash with several vehicles.
The group was returning from a comedy show in Dover, Delaware. Three other people were hurt in the crash. These included comedians Ardie Fuqua, Jeffrey Millea, and Tracy Morgan.
On July 10, 2014, Tracy Morgan and the other two injured passengers filed a lawsuit against Walmart. They claimed the truck driver had not slept for 24 hours before the crash. On March 20, 2015, it was reported that McNair's children received a $10 million settlement from Walmart.
James McNair was buried at Hillside Cemetery in Cortlandt Manor, Westchester County, New York.
Images for kids
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James McNair in the 2010s
