Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, is a Nigerian comedian, actor, filmmaker and TV host behind AY Live, AY’s Crib and the hit film 30 Days in Atlanta.
| Full Name | Ayodeji Richard Makun |
| Stage Name | AY |
| Age | 55 years |
| Date of Birth | August 19, 1971 |
| State of Origin | Ifon, Ondo State |
| Occupation | Comedian, Actor, Filmmaker, TV Host |
| Education | Delta State University, Abraka |
| Company | Corporate World Entertainment |
| Children | Two |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
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AY Makun Biography
Ayodeji Richard Makun was born on August 19, 1971, in Ondo State, Nigeria. He hails from Ifon in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State and is the eldest son in a family of seven children.
Better known as AY, he has spent more than two decades making Nigerians laugh, and he is widely regarded as one of the most successful comedians and entertainment entrepreneurs in Africa.
Educational Background
AY Makun studied Theatre Arts at Delta State University, Abraka, and graduated in 2003. He was a popular figure on campus, winning titles such as Most Celebrated Student on Campus in 2001 and Most Fashionable Student in 1999 and 2000.
Comedy Career
AY Makun first rose to prominence as the personal assistant and event manager to comedy legend Alibaba Akporobome, which gave him an inside view of the business of comedy. He also wrote the “A.Y Wire” column in The Sun newspaper.
He later launched AY Live, one of Nigeria’s biggest comedy concert brands, featuring top acts like Bovi and Helen Paul. He also started the AY Open Mic Challenge to give upcoming comedians a platform. Beyond live shows, he created and directs the TV sitcom AY’s Crib.
Movie Career
AY Makun broke into film as a producer with 30 Days in Atlanta (2014), which became one of the most successful Nigerian comedies of its time. His character, Akpos, became a fan favourite and returned in several films. His movies include:
- 30 Days in Atlanta (2014)
- A Trip to Jamaica (2016)
- The Wedding Party (2016)
- 10 Days in Sun City (2017)
- The Wedding Party 2 (2017)
- Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018)
- Merry Men 2 (2019)
- Christmas in Miami (2021)
- Almajiri (2022)
- Merry Men 3: Nemesis (2023)
- Mr Patrick Wahala in America (2024)
Awards and Recognition
AY Makun has won Comedian of the Year at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards and has been recognised as Creative Entrepreneur of the Year. In 2009 he was appointed a United Nations Peace Ambassador, and in 2018 he co-hosted the Golden Movie Awards Africa in Accra, Ghana.
Cardiff Show Controversy
In October 2026, AY faced heavy criticism after a disrupted comedy show in Cardiff, Wales, left fans disappointed and led to calls online to “cancel AY”. He later explained that the UK tour had been difficult, citing broken payment promises and a five-hour drive from Sheffield to Cardiff.
In a video shared on Instagram on October 29, 2026, AY Makun apologised to the fans who had waited for him. “For your disappointment, wasted time and the upset you experienced, I am sincerely sorry,” he said, adding that “it hurts to see one painful night used to dismiss more than twenty years of showing up for my fans.” He promised to return to Cardiff for a free show at his own expense.
Wife and Children
AY Makun married Mabel Makun in November 2008, and the couple have two children. In April 2024, he announced that they had separated and divorced. In 2025 he said both of them had moved on and denied reports that they were planning to reconcile.
Net Worth
AY Makun has an estimated net worth of $5 million, making him one of the richest comedians in Africa. His income comes from AY Live shows, his films, TV productions, endorsements and his company, Corporate World Entertainment.
Also Read: Woli Arole Biography, Age, Wife, Father, Net Worth
Social Media Handles
Fans can follow AY on his official page:
- Instagram: @aycomedian
