Meet Bernice Ye | Comedian, Actor, Producer & Martial Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bernice Ye and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bernice, what principle do you value most?
Being authentic matters the most to me. At the beginning of my career, I had moments of self-doubt and felt pressured to conform to certain expectations. However, as I delved deeper into the essence of why I do what I do, I realized that my true passion lies in making genuine and real human connections. To achieve that, I needed to embrace my authentic self and let it shine.

Embracing authenticity has been liberating and empowering. I feel a sense of freedom and happiness that comes from staying true to myself. As a result, my confidence has grown, and my fans have connected with the unique brand I present. I’ve been able to attract like-minded, authentic individuals into my life, creating a supportive and uplifting community.

There’s a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson that perfectly encapsulates my belief: “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” Embracing authenticity is not always easy, but it’s an essential principle that guides my journey and allows me to stay true to my voice and purpose.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is all about sharing authentic and relatable stories, especially those of first-generation immigrants. What sets me apart is my comedy comes from a place of love, hope, and positivity. And I love to blend stand-up comedy, rap, and dance into a unique and captivating performance. I take pride in representing my culture in a universally relatable way, leaving audiences feeling empowered and connected.

My professional journey was far from easy. When I arrived in the US 19 years ago as a clueless immigrant, I faced language barriers and cultural differences. I worked hard to establish a successful tech career, often being the only woman in the room. Despite challenges, doubts, and obstacles, I developed resilience and self-belief. Along the way, I received invaluable help and support from kind souls who uplifted and inspired me to find humor and hope through tough times, fueling my purpose to celebrate the beauty of human nature through laughter and authentic stories.

My brand and story are about breaking barriers, embracing diversity, and encouraging others to chase their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem. I want the world to know that each one of us has a unique story and voice that deserves to be heard and celebrated.

I’m excited about the impact my “Fine Import Show” has made. It provides a platform to elevate much-needed yet underrepresented voices, and it’s about creating a community where different cultures break barriers, connect, and mingle with each other.

I’m proud of the connections I’ve made with my audience, the love I’ve received, and the impact I’ve had on people’s lives. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding. I look forward to continuing to share my story, spread laughter, and make a positive difference in the world through my comedy.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Sure! Here are my favorite places to take my friends and family to:

Daytime Activities:
1. Venice – Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard, known for its trendy boutiques, galleries, and cafes.
2. Venice – Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Venice Canals, enjoying the charming scenery.
3. Getty Museum – Spend a morning or afternoon admiring art and enjoying a relaxing picnic on the grounds.
4. Santa Monica Beach – Relax on the sandy shores, soak up the sun, and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Dinner Options:
1. UOVO – Savor delicious and casual Italian food with freshly made pasta from Italy.
2. Baekjeong Korean BBQ – Indulge in the best Korean BBQ experience, savoring mouthwatering flavors.
3. Lawry’s Prime Rib – Enjoy a classic and upscale dining experience with delectable prime rib dishes.
4. Haidilao Hotpot – Experience authentic Chinese hotpot from China, enjoying a flavorful and interactive meal.

Nighttime Experiences:
1. The Magic Castle – Be enchanted by an exclusive and captivating magic show in a mystical setting.
2. Karaoke in Koreatown – Sing your heart out with friends in a lively karaoke bar.
3. Songbird Cafe in Chinatown – Sip on creative cocktails and enjoy live shows for a vibrant evening.

With this diverse selection of places, your best friend will have an exciting and unforgettable time exploring the city’s vibrant culture, savoring delicious meals, and experiencing some of the best entertainment options it has to offer.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate this shoutout highlight to my mentor, manager, friend, and #1 fan, George Reener. Despite not having met in person yet, George has had an incredible impact on my journey. He discovered my comedy on Instagram and was surprised that I actually respond to direct messages, which was a conscious decision I made to connect with my audience.

On the surface, we may seem to have nothing in common—George is a 70-year-old living in Texas. However, through my comedy, we connected on a soul level. George has been my unwavering support, always looking out for my best interests.

When I started producing my own show, “Fine Imports,” George stepped in to help me bootstrap the first show to success by buying 10 tickets so I could offer a buy one get one free promotion. He was also the first to donate to my GoFundMe campaign for my music video. The list goes on.

What’s truly remarkable is that George used to work in the music industry, and his expertise has saved me from getting into unfavorable contracts. As an artist, having a mentor who sees something special in you, believes in you, and brings out the best in you is invaluable, and George is that person for me.

I’m immensely grateful for his unwavering support and guidance. George has played a pivotal role in shaping my journey, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without him. Thank you, George! Your belief in me fuels my passion and inspires me to reach greater heights in my comedy career.

Website: https://www.berniceye.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bernicecomedy/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/berniceye/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bernicecomedy

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BerniceComedy

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@berniceComedy

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@bernicecomedy

Image Credits
Nicole Casaletto Photography Richardson Reigart