Rickey Smiley tackles police violence

Rickey Smiley

US stand-up comic Rickey Smiley has pledged to tackle the issue of police violence in the next season of his recently renewed comedy docuseries.

US cablenet TV One renewed Rickey Smiley For Real ahead of airing the final episode of the show’s second season last night.

The series follows Smiley as he juggles family life with his commitments as a comedian, TV host and radio personality. It is produced by Atlanta-based Bobbcat Films.

“Although I am happy about the renewal for season three of my show, it’s very difficult for me to celebrate as I sit here and watch the funerals of Philander Castile and Alton Sterling,” said Smiley, referencing two black men shot dead by police in separate incidents earlier this month.

“I assure you that police violence will be a topic addressed in season three as I feel compelled to use my platform to make change in this country for the good of all our citizens. I’m thankful my show is doing well, but our nation, especially black America, is grieving at this time,” he added.

Castile and Sterling’s deaths sparked a series of protests over police violence against the black community.