Bernie Mac: In My Own Words is a new REELZ TV special airing Sunday night. The program celebrates the life of comedic icon Bernie Mac from the beginning of his career to his passing in 2008.

The comedian got his start in as a stand-up comedian performing in Chicago. From there he made it big, signing a deal with Fox to star in his own series, titled: The Bernie Mac Show.

In 2005, the actor and comedian was diagnosed with Sarcoidosis. The disease frequently attacked his lungs until he passed from complications with pneumonia.

In the REELZ special, Bernie's family members reflect on his life and celebrate all of his accomplishments.

His wife and high school sweetheart, Rhonda Gore, reminisced, stating:

Before we even got married, he had told me. He said, "I'ma be rich. You better get on this train girl and ride it with me." I looked at him like "hm...okay."

You can watch the emotional tribute this Sunday on REELZ.