Devale Ellis: NFL to Entertainer, Reality vs Social Media & Tyler Perry as his mentor | The Pivot

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Growing up in Brooklyn in the 80s and 90s, kids did not have many role models in the media industry to admire, so sports became the main outlet and focus for Devale Ellis, who followed this path with football always being his plan B while acting and entertaining were his real dreams, Devale used the game of football to teach him about being a better man, better teammate and better person because
The football player turned actor and Internet personality, joined Ryan, Channing and Fred to share an inside look into his journey through the ups and downs, beating underdog odds and eventually landing him on the big screen while amassing a large social media fanbase. Walking on to Division I football, making the team, being undrafted and making a NFL roster are rare instances but for Devale, it's just about outworking the next person and being the 1% of the 1% which is why becoming a star actor and KZbin phenom was never out of a reach with dedication and effort.
Before making it to the NFL playing with the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns, Ellis was a wideout alongside Marques Colston at Hofstra University. Having played basketball most of his life, Devale relied on his athleticism to perform at the college level, but he tells the guys about how his dream for a scholarship led to him wanting real money at the professional level.
Starting his NFL career in Detroit, Devale's motivation to outwork people landed him a roster spot but as he peels back the layers of his experience, revealing his struggles mentally and emotionally, he opens up to the guys on how his addiction to painkillers began, turning to pills to try and mask his insecurities and frustrations with football. But his passion fading for the game and his Plan B quickly became his Plan A as he transitioned from the NFL to Hollywood, becoming an actor and entertainer.
Today, Devale s best known as a family man who's a star on Tyler Perry’s Sistas show amongst other projects while creating a platform with his wife Khadeen that has helped their show become a hit. His social media framework is filled with a lot of positive messages while sharing daily experiences to allow people a peek into his life and the lessons along the way. Sharing with the guys how instrumental Tyler Perry has been in his career and as a mentor in life trying to navigate each day. Perry has helped him continue to grow with opportunity and fame, but Devale explains the importance of always supporting his people while taking the characters he plays on tv to set an example that there is always hope for a different outcome.
While Devale posts lots of moments with his family online, he says the 1 min he shares out of the 1,440 minutes in a day is such a small representation of his life and who he is which is important to him to keep some aspects close to his heart. Through his hit series with his wife, he stresses the importance of open communication between him and his wife as well as with their sons, allowing them to experience life as it happens and tackle tough topics straight on whether it be racism, bullying, work ethic or debunking false perceptions of black culture, Devale prides himself in setting an example by sharing life experiences and showing the world, even people who hit obstacles have a way of achieving their dreams.
Life never works out quite as we planned or imagined, but sometimes it can work out even better and Devale has embraced the better and all the growth that has come with each success and even the failed opportunities too. As a father to young boys, Devale emphasizes how everything is centered around emotional maturity, having a strong family and the means to get by each day.
Devale is honest about the paths he's walked, mistakes he's made and how each part of his journey has shaped him into the man, husband and father he is today. For him, it's about creating an impactful legacy and giving back to his community through the culture, encouraging hope and spreading the right message.
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[@rikers263]

I'm glad to see Dee get his moment. Man saved me 250k dedicated so much to my son. He charged me 15.00...not 100, but 15.00 for the cost of the gym. My son got a D1 scholarship, ran a 4.3 w/ 42inch vertical. Dee always been for the kids and community.

[@ronaldlewter4670]

This was my coach the very first speed camp I went to was with him and his brother and it helped me a lot on my 40 time over explosiveness and velocity. The Ellis brothers helped so many kids in NYC . I love the interview

[@taliapeters-john344]

❤

[@maz20083]

Wow ❤

[@aprillane1888]

❤

[@reneebrown7804]

Sent this to my son! 😊 Thank you all for being and showing REAL BLACK MEN AND FATHERS!

[@s.o.s.9887]

😂I just did the same thing!

[@k2kfitchannel944]

sent to my brother nephew cousin

[@Junior.Senesca89]

Definitely a dope story bout his life and how he broke down how everyone’s route is different and love the ones who stick along side of you that’s know whoever you are as the person you trying be males or females🫡. 🤷🏾‍♂️💯

[@user-ps4zw6ow9t]

REAL TALK!

[@destinykelley7608]

I never watched Pivot but I will never miss out on anything Devale and Khadeen do! So here I am and of course Devale does not miss!

[@Backpack16]

“Teach them the history, of this country, not just the people of this country.” Powerful!

[@BrotherEDEN]

Devale's on a mission. We see you. We hear you. We got your back. Keep on speaking up and speaking out. Teaching LIFE in every interview.

[@exceniashields3504]

Facts!! That’s my internet big brother.

[@maz20083]

Right, he's been the big brother I wish I had ❤🙏🏾 been taking life lessons from him since 2019 when I started following them and him living out loud has helped me keep going on my entrepreneurial journey ❤ grateful to have people like him live his truth and encourage so many of us around the world. Love from the South Pacific Islands ❤ Thankyou the Pivot for this platform and a great episode. Just subscribed ❤

[@issacbobb6167]

“You only fail when you quit” best thing I got from this 🙏🏾

[@tamarajones8229]

I love how he is raising his sons and letting them handle things and learning how to manage emotions.

[@bilallittle7626]

Love seeing my brother tell his truth to inspire others.

[@Rashaadthegr8]

That's crazy we never realize how some of the TV roles actually affect the real at home life/kids.

[@helenhenson7575]

I totally agree, I hate rolls for us are drug dealers, women of the night, I’m 73yrs and hope and pray this change

[@destinykelley7608]

Devale is literally the best person they’ve had. I love him especially because he’s not afraid to speak and stick to his standpoint. It might hurt his career but as he said his integrity comes first! More men need to be like Devale

[@kiaragarland3079]

This was one of the best interviews this year. I love Devale’s level of intention, and his art of story telling on this interview. It’s impressive! I’m a fan of both The Dead Ass Podcast and The Pivot Podcast but I feel like I still learned something new about Devale, his journey and mindset. Plus he had Channing cracking up and it’s always dope to see Black men smile!

[@aali98andall]

Never get tired of listening to this man speak ❤ much love respect to Devale and his fam 👏🏾

[@AKUTZMUSIC]

I literally just said the same thing in my head as I scrolled past the comment before yours 😅

[@allisonmiller9648]

THANK YOU for having Devale Ellis on The Pivot!!!!!! I suggested him, however, I'm sure yall had him on yall list!!!!!!! I am so happy about this interview!!!!!!!

[@maz20083]

Yep, me too ❤

[@chinemeremudoh3732]

I can't tell you how much joy I get watching anything THIS brother's on - TV, movies, but mostly interviews and podcasts. The dude is ALWAYS refreshing, ALWAYS 💯 ALWAYS real, ALWAYS LIFE ! ❤ Thanks guys for getting him. This abt to be 🔥

[@kenithmilton4427]

My boy. Thank u for setting an example for me and younger black men on how to be a better husband and father

[@rcarl1473]

I remember when he and his wife first started on KZbin , their growth is dope to see

[@user-xs9gd1tp5q]

@rcarl1473 are he and his wife on You Tube? Got to find this for real.

[@bankston11]

I can't believe @thepivot didn't have Devale on their list. But I'm so glad Devale reached out because I really love him on his shows but also as a person.

[@briblack1]

Right! I'm a bit offended he had to explain why he should be on the podcast! And it sounds like it could've been a while to convince them.

[@k2kfitchannel944]

And, this was a STRONG interview🫶🏾

[@mr.michaela.davissr.6296]

This is why I have gravitated to this podcast. It is so refreshing to CONSISTENTLY see and hear positive messages. Please continue to make a positive difference!

[@tangopunk]

OMG his explanation of how sex scenes are shot was HILARIOUS 😂😂😂

[@marcusshelton8715]

Cut! Don’t drop her! He sweating cut the ac up😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 dying laughing

[@wes2816]

Imma keep it a buck 50…. Truly had no idea who this dude was. Watched the whole interview, this guy is amazing. I love his family views, love his attitude, love everything about this man! Great interview, boys! Keep ‘em comin! This may be my favorite episode I’ve watched honestly. And that’s says a lot since I had no prior knowledge of this man.

[@leonbryant5474]

FACTZZZZZZ

[@tineillep]

Wow!!! This is so great to see this

[@paulahonore1504]

I loved the interview with coach Staley, you just one-up that interview. Thank you. Love the whole family DeValle, and Khadeen.

[@hectorrodriguez2839]

This is a top 10 episode of the year. The pivot is doing a great job and I’m loving every episode. Thank you guys.

[@queenbdutchess5689]

Devale thanks for sharing the love. The pivot never misses..

[@cdeal369]

Absolutely loved this interview. I've watched Devale for years. He has always kept it real. Very inspirational!

[@OptimisticKTV]

I knew this was going to be one of them ones! I love the TRANSPARENCY and AUTHENTICITY. This conversation needed to be shared. This is a POWERFUL MESSAGE.

[@shelbymccray5392]

Been following Devale & Kay Kay for YEARS! This is THE best interview from you yet!

[@tangelam8935]

Been here for he and Kay since the Cheerio commercial& when Ro Ro was an arm baby- I definitely agree!

[@shelbymccray5392]

@@tangelam8935 omg yes Jax was TINY! I remember when they announced Ro, I been hoping for a girl since then lol but I like the “four whole boys” better

[@tangelam8935]

Yes @@shelbymccray5392!!😂🤣

[@donaldwilliams6555]

Awesome interview!!!! Devale Ellis is a REAL ONE. Unapologetically HIM.

[@tonipate6270]

Love Devale’s transparency!!

[@blackbutmild1]

This was a hell of a good interview and background story. Good job, guys.👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@MD-mm9gs]

I love the Ellises! A family of substance. So glad y’all had Devale on. Another great message for the culture.

[@janicecray8630]

Excellent life lessons Devale being transparent is important today especially for our children in today’s society life is all about making the right choices. Grace, Grace, Grace 🙏🏾❤️💪🏾👑.

[@user-ho8of5ql5p]

This was an amazing interview! I love Kay, DeVale and their entire family. Thank you for sharing and being transparent about your journey over the years.

[@valnaviawalker2657]

This is my favorite podcast, and I'm not into football, but this show is so much more than that! Love Devale too!

[@Allthingsarepossibl3]

Thank you Devale for reaching out to them, such a profound episode

[@dmac5808]

Excellent show. I left Brooklyn at an early age with a chip on my shoulder, but I used it in a positive way to become successful.

[@allisonjones1585]

This is yet another awesome interview. The pride I felt of how this man articulated himself was mind blowing. I'm proud of you black men from a Caribbean black woman. I pray these interviews inspire and reshape the new generation and keep us in a good narrative and not a false one

[@janekelley1834]

My favorite guy Devale telling his truth

[@onymomah]

Devale, I just watched your interview on The Pivot podcast and it was truly one of the best I've seen in a while. I've been away from social media and barely online because the hustle never stops, but I'm so glad I caught this one. You're really setting an example for many, and I'm incredibly proud of the progress you're making. Keep up the amazing work!

[@ninonrhome5043]

Gents! Put a check in the box. This was an excellent interview. I have watched Devale and his wife from time to time , but this was raw, real, and necessary. You have a Pivot fan for life.🎉❤

[@eliporter3980]

I grew up in Brooklyn in the 90s so watching this episode it was like looking at myself. When I was 15-16 I had a similar plan and I'm thankful that now in my 40s I accomplished the majority of my goals.

[@BEAUTIINBRAVERY]

I love how these men just sit and had a honest conversation. 💯💯💯💯💯

[@antoinemoore8898]

One of the realest interviews.

[@abahso.floetic3596]

Kings, I truly appreciate each and every one of you for this highly intelligent, genuinely transparent conversation! I love Devale Ellis more after every interview. The entire Ellis Family are truly special individuals. Pivot Podcast, y'all are awesome. Ryan, I am a NOLA native as well!!! I love seeing our MEN in such an incredibly POSITIVE, encouraging, motivational LIGHT 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@sharonblossom9587]

This is one interview I’ll rewatch. You guy’s keep putting out these DOPE interviews. This is my dude. I love their family videos too. Keep on doing what you’re doing Youngman🙌🏾

[@leslierochester3309]

Great, great interview. I love Devale even more. Ryan, Channing, and Fred. kudos!!!!! I love yall.

[@junegirlhodges7787]

Thank you all for this interview he is definitely an inspiration to us all. ❤️

[@roea7846]

This conversation is so powerful and necessary. We need to see more men like this online. Thank you, The Pivot.

[@TheInnovatrixAI]

❤ THE 4 KINGS BEING AUTHENTIC 🔥🔥🔥🔥💯🙏🏽🎤

[@chrisbirch7735]

This episode was so good!!! I’m gonna watch this one again because so many nuggets were dropped! As a father of 3 sons, this show blessed me!!! Thank you!!!

[@DJ_JMIZZEL]

Always enjoy Devale and being honest.

[@michellejames6515]

Awesome Interview!!😊 4 Kings having genuine, love, respect, honor & truth for each other having a conversation 💜 spreading Empowerment & Inspiration 👏🏽⚘️💙👏🏽⚘️💙👏🏽⚘️💙👏🏽⚘️💙

[@Damiana1111]

Wonderful interview!! I enjoy watching Devale with his beautiful family....Also, I KNEW Devale would give us Martin. Thanks for the moves at the end. LOL!

[@tashalmwoods7103]

Amazing!!! Everything about this interview was dope!!

[@Choicesadc]

AWESOME INTERVIEW. Love the show and Love Devale Ellis !!!!

[@rhemail7092]

And yet again another Great Pivot journey told. Good dialog that we all can learn from.

[@smoov8498]

Great conversation! Love to see black men sit down and just have conversations.

[@murielcarrie1292]

Davale is definitely one to follow on Instagram (I do). And to hear his story about how he succeeded in life is inspiring!! Another banger for my favorite PODCAST!!! :)

[@towanpeze]

One of the best interviews for real.

[@dulaneywilliams4243]

This whole Episode is AMAZING!!

[@paulovicci]

This is another elite interview of the pivot. Thank you so much.

[@lilv114]

This was a great listen…. God Bless Devale and his family

[@Backpack16]

I love the Ellises! Continue Blessings!

[@Backpack16]

👏👏👏👏👏Great conversation!! I learn soo much about Devale and the industry, and life.

[@RonnieHithe-kh6sp]

Salute to Devale Ellis you are truly amazing keep up the great work as a 64 year old brother I still try to learn something everyday a whole lot of teaching was done in the great episode. A much watch for everyone including young fathers to hear what a father really is and does for their children nothing wrong with checking yourself to be better as a father and man .

[@shanicquahtimmons5949]

Loved this episode. Been following him and family for a long time but I loved him sitting down sharing another side of hisself

[@hollisnelson5925]

An inspirational conversation. These men make me proud.

[@Red-lu3ku]

Another great episode! I’m so happy to see 4 great black men being shown as great fathers and helping to change the narrative 🙏🏿.

[@CityPrettyMakeup]

The episode we didn’t know we needed! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@raymondbell8782]

really really great episode! i appreciate this platform! God Bless Devale & the Pivot crew‼️‼️👏🏾🙏🏾

[@lashonnerenay]

The way you guys just listened & let him talk is admirable!! I love this podcast man! ❤

[@deborahhastings7553]

This was an awesome interview. Devale is the example of Black Excellence!

[@eugenestewart4251]

Best podcast hands down✊🏿

[@ericabell2756]

Devale and his family are such an inspiration to me and my husband. My Husband surprised me and got us tickets to see him and Kay live. I loved them before my I fell in love seeing them in person. How they navigated a crowd. How they loved on each other in real time. And during the Q&A they were so well spoken it was inspiring. I love it. Can’t wait to see where my family is in 5 years and theirs cause they are truly inspiring us!!! For sure! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@joibowles3536]

Been following Devale and his wife since 2016. Love watching him (both) evolve, from what they share with us and how he sees the bigger scope of various things and instills life lessons in his kids as a guide to follow as they grow older in this world!

[@ladytee689]

Love this❤️ I just love the Ellises, always transparent in any interview he does. The Pivot thank you for this, yall are the freakin best.

[@shedrickturner7758]

Another great interview and conversation 💯💯

[@yolandapayne5043]

This was such an amazing episode. I don’t listen to this pod but I have been following Devale and the Ellis family for years. Anytime he speaks I know there will be gems dropped and this was no different. I just love to hear his journey and his mindset. Our young black boys need mentors like him.

[@hydeehydes]

Been waiting on this interview 🔥🔥🔥

[@nikirenneechambers]

I loveeee to watch & listen to a conversation with intelligent black men💙

[@wolsleymartin6827]

One of the best shows, man. Keep doing y'all thing ✊🏾

[@adrekleintjes5697]

Devale made it on the Pivot ❤️🇿🇦❤️

[@deannaadams3487]

Pivot….. thank you for facilitating Devale telling his story.

[@player55pistons]

That brooklyn growth is real. you learn from young how to maneuver and learn people. shoutout to him for real.

[@deevelynoliphant1723]

This a great interview talking about making goals and making your real passion come true

[@Reeses710]

Another amazing episode!! It's always great to see Devale in his element, he always speak with great intentions....so glad you guys gave him the space to sit & just speak his truths! Luv the entire interview....

[@jerrodnewsom9826]

This episode was dope on so many levels. As a husband, father, and black man, I truly appreciate this barbershop talk for the masses.

[@mzchocolatedrop405]

Devale on the Pivot 🔥🔥🔥

[@Jasmine-pz4hu]

Whew the way I cried through this episode! This was good.

[@CynthiaLipsey]

I absolutely love The Ellis family!!! I've been following them for years.

[@TheWood125]

Devale I appreciate the testimony. I know you said you don’t like to talk about your stories much but this had to get out to inspire those who want to quit.

[@lashawnajackson2284]

This interview was so dope 🔥🔥🔥

[@tlinc80]

I remember when Devale was playing Football.

[@lmonik488]

I absolutely LOOOOOOOOVED this episode. 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@Nikki_alterego]

I love Devale and his family. Stand up dude

[@trendiione8810]

Your gifts will make room for you 🙌🏽🙌🏽 Great episode!!

[@michelelawrence6992]

This was my first Pivot episode. Devale brought me here. I loved it!

[@rdottwordottwo2286]

Nice video! Learned alot from the young man! He is setting so many good examples! I learned some things about myself. Thanks!

[@jasmincooper3185]

Yes FINALLY!!!!🙌🏾🙏🏾💯

[@kevinmanning2380]

This was another great interview and made me a Devale fan.

[@caroljefferson1998]

This is one of my absolute favorite episodes. I have been a fan of Devale since Sistas premiered. Thank you gentlemen for having him on the podcast! Love and continued blessings to you all and your families. ❤❤❤❤