Camille Winbush, known for her role as Vanessa Thomkins on the beloved sitcom “The Bernie Mac Show,” has recently made headlines by joining OnlyFans. The 34-year-old actress, who launched her account in 2021, has faced both support and criticism for her decision. In a candid interview with Comedy Hype, Winbush explained her reasons for turning to the subscription platform.
Winbush addressed the misconceptions surrounding her financial situation, particularly the assumption that she is still living off residual checks from her time on “The Bernie Mac Show.” She pointed out that those checks have significantly decreased over the years. “People outside of the acting world have no place to speak on it,” she said. “When people say, ‘Oh, those Bernie Mac checks must have dried up,’ I’m like, ‘From a job 20 years ago when I was a 12-year-old? Yeah.’ Like, duh.”
She elaborated on the diminishing value of residual checks, noting that they “get smaller and smaller every year.” Unlike actors from shows like “Friends,” who made a million dollars per episode, Winbush’s residuals are not enough to sustain a living two decades later. “Twenty years later, those checks are not sustainable for a living,” she emphasized.
Winbush also touched on the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. “You can’t count on any job to last or even to book a job,” she said. Over the years, she has taken on various roles, including owning an ice cream shop as a teenager. “But if I can find a way to make enough to buy a home from the comfort and safety of my own living room, why wouldn’t I do that?” she added.
Despite her clear explanations, Winbush has faced backlash, particularly from those who believe her late TV uncle, Bernie Mac, would be disappointed. She addressed these critics directly, stating, “I made the mistake of reading comments about my ‘fan’ announcement. Overall, the majority were supportive, and I appreciate that. But I’m human, and of course, the ones that stick out to me were the negatives. So let me be clear – I am not broke or desperate for money. Bernie, God rest his soul, is not turning over in his grave. STOP saying that. Even if meant as a joke, it is far from funny.”
Winbush’s decision to join OnlyFans is not unique among former child stars. Dee Dee Davis, who played her younger sister on “The Bernie Mac Show,” also has an OnlyFans account. Winbush has defended her choice, stating, “The trolls are hungry again, so here’s some food for thought—I’ve never been arrested, never been on drugs, don’t have any baby daddies, I pay all my taxes, I drink water, and mind the business that pays me.”
She announced her OnlyFans account on Instagram, writing, “Yes, you heard that right. I have joined OF! But I’m doing it my way*- I’ll be saying the things I really want to say, singin’ & dancing, and sharing exclusive content.”
Other actresses have also turned to OnlyFans to make a living. Drea de Matteo, known for her role on “The Sopranos,” revealed that she joined the platform during financial and personal hardships. “OnlyFans saved my life, 100 percent,” she told Daily Mail. “I can’t believe I’m saying that, but it really did save us. Anybody that wants to condemn me and put me down, go for it. I just hope you never find yourself in the position I was in to take care of two little kids.”
Winbush’s journey highlights the challenges faced by former child stars as they transition into adulthood. While some may find her decision controversial, she remains unapologetic. “If the most scandalous thing strangers can say about me is that I took some sexy pics as an adult and made a couple mil in less than 2yrs, I think I’m doing alright as a human in today’s society,” she tweeted.
Ultimately, Winbush’s move to OnlyFans is a personal choice aimed at financial stability. As she continues to navigate her career, she remains focused on her well-being and independence, regardless of public opinion.
