‘Sideshow’: In New Book, Comedian Rickey Smiley Gets Serious About Grief And Loss

In this image released on August 3, 2024, Rickey Smiley speaks onstage during the 39th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on July 20, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada. | Source: Mindy Small / Getty

In a recent interview on Get Up Mornings, comedian, actor, and radio host Rickey Smiley joined Mr. Griff to discuss his upcoming book Sideshow. Known for his humor and authenticity, Rickey shared deep insights about the grief and loss that inspired his latest work.

The conversation began with Griff asking why he chose the title Sideshow. Rickey explained that the book is rooted in the idea of “living with loss and moving forward with faith.” He reflected on the struggles comedians face, saying, “As comics, we go through stuff, but our job is to go on stage and make people laugh… even when you’re dying on the inside.” He likened this experience to a carnival sideshow, referencing the song, “Let the Sideshow Begin,” which speaks to life’s hardships and the act of putting on a performance despite inner pain.

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Rickey’s transparency deepened when Griff asked about the impact of his son Brandon’s passing. With raw emotion, Rickey shared how difficult the grieving process has been and how writing the book was therapeutic, though painful. He revealed, “It was therapy. It was draining… you work on it all day and then you cry that night.”

The book, which ties together the deaths of Rickey’s father and son, addresses the overwhelming nature of grief. Rickey recounted moments when the pain was almost too much to bear, but explained that his faith became stronger in those dark times. “I had nobody else to lean on but God… both feet were off the ground,” he said, describing how he relied on his faith to navigate the devastating loss.

Rickey also talked about how grief affected not just him, but his entire family. He said he had to protect his mother, his other children, and especially his granddaughter. “I became my grandfather,” Rickey recalled, reflecting on the strength he found from watching his grandfather lead during times of family tragedy.

Sideshow, described as a “page-turner” and “scripture-based,” is intended to help others dealing with grief. “If you’ve suffered a loss, this book is going to help you,” Rickey promised, noting that it will leave readers with a new perspective on life and gratitude.

Pre-orders for Sideshow are available now, with the audio version releasing on September 17th.

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