Actor and comedian Brandon T. Jackson is making a bold return to the spotlight with a brand-new twist on the entrepreneurial pitch format. Makin’ A Brand is not your typical business show. Think Shark Tank meets Wild ‘N Out, with a dash of satire and a splash of celebrity chaos. The stakes? There’s no funding—just fame, funny feedback, and the chance to go viral.
Hosted by Jackson, best known for his breakout roles in Lottery Ticket and Tropic Thunder, Makin’ A Brand invites entrepreneurs, dreamers, and side-hustlers to pitch their brand ideas to a panel of celebrity judges in front of cameras and a growing online audience. But don’t expect polite applause or soft encouragement—the show promises sharp critiques, comedic roasts, and the kind of honest feedback most startup founders don’t want but definitely need.
“People spend years chasing investors or doing pitch competitions and still get nowhere,” says Jackson. “So I figured, let’s give people a platform to get real exposure—but also be real about whether their brand actually makes sense… or if it just sucks.”
A Judging Panel That Brings the Heat
Joining Brandon on the panel is a rotating cast of celebrities who are no strangers to business—or entertainment. Names like Terrence Howard, Ray J, Flex Alexander, Joe Torry, and Chris Spencer lend their voices and comedic timing to the judging table. The result is a mix of industry insight and unfiltered humor, with each episode delivering both entrepreneurial lessons and pure entertainment.
- Terrence Howard, known for his role in Empire, brings intensity and raw honesty.
- Ray J combines celebrity hustle with real business experience.
- Flex Alexander, a comedy veteran, adds heart and humor.
- Joe Torry and Chris Spencer round out the panel with quick wit and sharp punchlines.
The judges aren’t there to hand out checks—they’re there to test your pitch under pressure, all while keeping viewers laughing.
How the Show Works
Unlike typical pitch shows, Makin’ A Brand doesn’t require auditions. Interested entrepreneurs simply visit MakinABrand.com, fill out a registration form, and purchase a ticket ($350) to secure their spot on the show. Once registered, participants will speak with producers (including Jackson himself) to prep for filming.
The show currently films at CoCRE8 Studios in Van Nuys, California, though the location may change depending on scheduling. Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodations, and are encouraged to arrive a day early and leave the day after to ensure a smooth experience.
What do you get for your money? Guaranteed time on-camera, exposure to thousands of potential customers and followers, and the opportunity to put your brand in front of celebrities with real influence. Oh—and probably a few hilarious insults too.
Why It Works
The genius of Makin’ A Brand lies in its balance of comedy and content. While the jokes fly, there’s a real platform being built—one that offers entrepreneurs publicity, networking opportunities, and a viral moment that could change their business forever.
Participants walk away with professional footage, industry feedback, and the type of brand exposure most startups can only dream of. And even if your idea gets roasted, that viral clip might be the thing that puts your business on the map.
How to Get the Most Out of It
Once cast, entrepreneurs are encouraged to make the most of their appearance by announcing it on social media, updating their websites, and sharing behind-the-scenes content. The Makin’ A Brand team also offers support to amplify participants’ posts across its platforms.
Participants are urged to bring high energy, confidence, and a sense of humor to their appearance. Preparation is key—knowing your pitch, your brand, and your numbers will help you handle whatever the judges throw your way.
Legal and Release Info
Participants must agree to a release form that outlines the show’s comedic nature and gives permission for footage to be used across media platforms. The registration fee is non-refundable and guarantees casting on the show.
Final Thoughts
Makin’ A Brand isn’t about winning money—it’s about winning attention. It’s for entrepreneurs who are bold enough to pitch their dream on camera and brave enough to laugh at themselves in the process. Whether your idea is genius or a hot mess, Brandon T. Jackson and his celebrity panel will let you know—and the internet will be watching.
Think you’ve got what it takes?
Visit MakinABrand.com to register today.
For inquiries, email Brandon@makinabrand.com or follow @BrandonTJackson and @MakinABrand on Instagram.
This is your chance to make your brand—or get roasted trying.