Key Takeaways
- Fans have noticed subtle changes to his appearance, like the tattoo on his right arm.
- Another change that has drawn attention is a seeming skin condition on Epps’ arms.
- Epps himself has not publicly confirmed having hyperpigmentation or any other specific skin condition.
While actor Michale Epps may not be as famous as his comedian namesake, Michael Epps, he is steadily making a name for himself on the small screen.
The 18-year-old has been a regular cast member on Showtime’s “The Chi” since 2018, playing Jake Taylor.
As Epps’ profile has risen over the years, fans have noticed subtle changes to his appearance beyond his developing acting skills.
One significant change was the addition of a tattoo on his right arm that reads “Loyalty Over Royalty” – a powerful statement about prioritizing loyalty to oneself and loved ones over deference to authority.
However, another change that has drawn attention is a seeming skin condition on Epps’ arms.
In photos prior to getting his tattoo, Epps can be seen with patchy, dark, discolored areas on his arms.
This appears to be a case of hyperpigmentation, a common condition in which some areas of skin produce more melanin, resulting in uneven darkening.
The skin discoloration was quite noticeable when Epps attended the 2022 BET Awards.
Though his new tattoo now covers that affected area on his right arm, the hyperpigmentation remains visible in his left arm in recent photos.
It’s important to know that Epps himself has not publicly confirmed having hyperpigmentation or any other specific skin condition.
As a private matter, he has chosen not to address the situation directly.
What Epps has been outspoken about, however, are the fears and challenges he faces as a young Black man in America.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, he reflected on the nation’s racial reckoning and his own experience.
“It’s sad that every time I go out of my house, I fear that I’ll come in contact with a white cop,” Epps stated.
“I fear for my life. I fear for my life coming into contact with any cops. I’m scared that just from the color of my skin, I could lose my life.”
Michael Epps
While Epps may be dealing with a skin pigmentation issue, his larger concern appears to be the racism-policing that many Black Americans endure daily.
As his profile rises, Epps will likely have more opportunities to lend his voice to these vital conversations.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Michael Epps was born on September 29, 2005, and is 18 years old.
- His mother, Keisha Johnson, works as his manager.
