Actor-comedian Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles subscribes to school of thought that there are some constants in life that will remain the same until the end of time, with the need for love being prime among them. As the host of OWN’s hit reality series “Ready to Love,” Miles says love is a basic human need and should be a priority, especially for those who want to build rewarding lifelong relationships.
“It’s never too late to make love a priority,” Miles says as he promotes the ninth season of “Ready to Love” which premieres on Friday, Jan. 12.
Created by Will Packer Productions, “Ready to Love” features 10 single men and 10 single women who have been touched by love and want to go on to experience the full breadth of a committed, forever love relationship. The singles range from mid-30s to early 50s and are hopeful for a little help at another chance at love.
“Our singles are looking for a second or third chance at love. Some of them have baggage from past relationships and have experienced some tough life lessons. These are real people with real lives that share the desire for companionship. Whether they leave with a love match or not, the experience offers an opportunity to learn about themselves. You see many of the singles leave without finding love and then end up finding love soon after by applying what they learned on the show,” Miles shares.
The “Ready to Love” audience has come to appreciate Miles’ input on dating and relationships as many of the singles rely on his wisdom as they navigate their journey on the show. Miles has been with his wife Jacqueline for over two decades and believes their success is due to their commitment to each other and their dedication to keeping the lines of communication open.
“When we got married, we both agreed that this was it. No one was going anywhere so there was not an option to give up on the marriage. If both people share that mindset, then the only option is to figure out how to work through your issues. Communication is key because you have to keep those lines open through everything.
“I meet couples who don’t focus on each other and instead focus on their children or work. When that happens, the kids grow up and eventually leave and then you don’t know each other and a lot of times they end up going their separate ways. For us, we made sure to put each other as a priority first. In fact, I couldn’t wait until the kids were grown because then I had her all to myself again,” Miles says.
Having a host who is a walking example of success in love is one of the main ingredients that makes “Ready to Love” an authentic experience, not only for the couples but also for the audience. OWN viewers were familiar with Miles from his comic relief on the daily “Steve Harvey Morning Show” as well as his stand-up comedy performances. Miles says he thoroughly enjoys the entirety of his professional experiences that accompany his very successful career.
“I’m blessed to say the ‘Morning Show’ has become my bread and butter, but I truly enjoy all of it. There is nothing like being onstage and feeling the energy of the audience and getting that live feedback, but I also enjoy hosting the show and seeing couples like Joi and Clifton find love. I have to say I enjoy it all,” he says.
Over the past few years, comedians have become a regularly trending topic on social media. From the Chris Rock-Will Smith debacle at the 2022 Oscars to Dave Chappelle being criticized by the LGBTQ community, and most recently, Katt Williams‘ controversial interview with Shannon Sharpe where he called out fellow comedians, specifically Steve Harvey for their behind-the-scenes tactics to secure movie roles. Instead of clapping back at Williams’ remarks about his close friend Steve Harvey, Miles plays it safe when commenting on the brewing feud.
“Tommy is going to stay in Tommy’s lane,” he laughs. “My goal has always been to try to bring laughter and joy to everybody. As comedians that’s our job, sometimes we take tragedy and we flip it into comedy. But I don’t think we should be censored. We need to be free to go on that stage and say what we need to say. We’re saying the things that most people are thinking and just can’t say. For my brothers in this game and in this comedy business, it’s a fraternity within itself. We go through bumps and bruises with each other. I just hope in the long haul we get back together and can respect each other as men and women.”
Photos provided by OWN
