‘The Upshaws’ Cast, Instagrams: Meet the Comedy's Stars - Netflix Tudum
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The titular Upshaws is the kind of family you’d want to join — if only for the drama. Between the ups and downs of this Indiana clan, led by father Bennie (Mike Epps) and mother Regina (Kim Fields), there’s a lot of love here. So much love that you might need help keeping track of all the characters and the actors who play them. Well, you’re in luck because we’re laying it all out for you — from detailing the entire cast to connecting the dots on this family tree.
Mike Epps as Bennie Upshaw
Comedian Mike Epps plays Bennie, who strives to be a better family man. Bennie and Regina were high school sweethearts who raised three children together despite Bennie’s wandering eye. Epps has a long history of bringing the funny, with multiple stand-up specials available on Netflix: Only One Mike, Don’t Take it Personal, and the latest, Indiana Mike. That final title is particularly important, since The Upshaws is set in Epps’ hometown of Indianapolis.
You can follow Epps on Twitter or Instagram.
Kim Fields as Regina Upshaw
Sitcom Kim Fields brings her decades of talent to The Upshaws as Regina, a deeply forgiving woman and health-care worker. From a teen pregnancy to the devastation of her husband fathering a child outside of their marriage, Regina has been through a lot, and Fields imbues her with passion and humor. It’s no surprise, though, since Fields has starred in legendary comedies like Living Single and The Facts of Life. And never forget her stint in The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
You can follow Fields on Twitter or Instagram.
Wanda Sykes as Lucretia Turner
Wanda Sykes pulls double duty on The Upshaws as Lucretia, older sister to Regina, and the series’ co-creator. Lucretia adds a dash of gleeful nosiness and sharp wit to the proceedings as the silent partner of Bennie’s garage. Like Epps and Fields, Sykes is also a comedy legend, appearing in scripted series like The New Adventures of Old Christine, rom-coms like Monster-in-Law and her own stand-up specials. You can see Sykes as the star of special Wanda Sykes: Not Normal and in the LGBTQ+ celebration Stand Out.
You can follow Sykes on Twitter or Instagram.
Jermelle Simon as Bernard Upshaw
In his first major role, Jermelle Simon plays Bernard, the eldest Upshaw sibling — and the one most suspicious of dad Bennie. Bernard works as a UPS driver and is a proud gay man. Simon has also appeared in guest roles on series like Animal Kingdom.
You can follow Simon on Twitter or Instagram.
Khali Daniya-Renee Spraggins as Aaliyah Upshaw
Young teen Aaliyah is the scene-stealer of the Upshaws, and she’s played by newcomer Khali Daniya-Renee Spraggins. The comedy is also her first big part, after popping up on Empire as a young Cookie Lyons.
You can follow Spraggins on Instagram.
Journey Christine as Maya Upshaw
Maya is the baby of the fam, and is brought to life by Journey Christine. She’s also starred in two music videos, her own “Work” and Nina West’s “Drag is Magic.”
You can follow Christine on Instagram.
Diamond Lyons as Kelvin Upshaw
One of the core themes of The Upshaws is illuminating what a modern Midwestern blended family can look like. Kelvin is the reason for that blending, as the son Bennie had while on a “break” from Regina. Kelvin is also the same age as Aaliyah. Like the rest of his TV siblings, Diamond Lyons counts The Upshaws as his first major role. He also appears in an episode of the Colin Kaepernick miniseries Colin in Black & White.
You can follow Lyons on Instagram.
Gabrielle Dennis as Tasha Lewis
Gabrielle Dennis plays Tasha, Kelvin’s mother, Bennie’s ex and the neighborhood hairstylist. Trendy comedy fans have seen Dennis in other shows like A Black Lady Sketch Show and Insecure. She also flexes her drama muscles in superhero series Luke Cage.
You can follow Dennis on Twitter or Instagram.
Page Kennedy as Duck
Duck is one of Bennie’s few allies, as his confidant at the garage. He’s portrayed by Page Kennedy, who’s been working in Hollywood for over 20 years on shows like Rush Hour and Backstrom. He’s also a rapper.
You can follow Kennedy on Twitter or Instagram.
All About The Upshaws
- NewsThe sitcom will conclude with Part 7, consisting of 12 episodes.By Jean BentleyJune 7
- Meet CuteThere’s a lot more to Bernard than his “custom” UPS uniform.By Ariana RomeroJuly 1, 2022
- Up CloseThe sitcom veteran reveals his biggest comedic influences, from childhood heroes to contemporary stand-ups.By Jean BentleyJune 30, 2022
- NewsYou’re going to want a seat at this dinner table.By Ariana RomeroMay 7, 2022
Shop The Upshaws
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