The Breakfast Club INTERVIEW: Rip Micheals Talks April Fools Comedy Jam 2026, Wild'n Out, T.i. Comedy Controversy + More
Mar 17, 2026
Rip Michaels, comedian and promoter behind arena-scale comedy-music shows like April Fools Comedy Jam and Wild'n Out tours. He talks about his recent heart attack, recovery and how he balances touring with health. He explains how April Fools was built as an affordable arena show, his approach to booking and paying talent, and responds to the T.I. controversy.
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Rip's Heart Attack And Hospital Recovery
- Rip Micheals recounts having a heart attack at the Apollo and being rushed to the Mayo Clinic for months of care.
- He describes being placed on the transplant list, living in Arizona for recovery, and learning his heart was functioning at 19%.
Raising His Daughter Through The Grind
- Rip describes raising his daughter through homelessness and early tour life, with her helping promote shows from the car.
- He credits fatherhood with giving him purpose and keeping his daughter involved in his career as she grew up.
Get Echo Tests If Heart Disease Runs In Your Family
- Do get proactive heart screenings if you have family history because Rip says congenital issues can be asymptomatic.
- He recommends echo cardiograms (not only EKGs) and follow-up right/left heart caths when doctors suspect structural problems.