INTERVIEW: Michael Jai White Talks New Film ‘Special Op: Rent-A-Cop’, Controlling Your Ego, Tyler Perry, Winning The Bruce Lee Award

In this episode of The Breakfast Club, host DJ Envy welcomes actor and martial artist Michael Jai White to discuss his new film 'Special Op: Rent-A-Cop,' his journey from Brooklyn street life to Hollywood stardom, and his philosophy on ego, discipline, and personal growth. White reflects on his deep-rooted connection to martial arts, not just as a combat skill but as a life practice that teaches humility, patience, and self-mastery. He shares how his early experiences with insecurity and survival in tough neighborhoods shaped his drive to protect himself and others through discipline. White also opens up about his complex relationship with DMX, his respect for Tyler Perry’s evolving filmmaking style, and his pride in being the first non-Asian to win the Bruce Lee Award—a recognition he cherishes deeply due to his long-standing training with Bruce Lee’s daughter, Shannon Lee. Throughout the conversation, White emphasizes the importance of staying humble, being an 'empty cup' open to learning, and using power not to dominate but to protect and uplift.