Williams was clearly exhausted after a string of high-profile issues and run-ins with the authorities.

According to CNN, he startled fans by announcing his retirement in 2012.

“I’m just going to go ahead and announce my retirement from stand-up,” Williams told a reporter after yet another arrest.

Why did Katt Williams retire?

He was riding high after numerous successful stand-up specials at the time, and fans were shocked that he would be stepping away from the spotlight.

Williams’ work has drawn similarities to comedians such as Richard Pryor, although he appeared to have occasional difficulties with his co-stars.

Is Katt Williams still performing?

Despite not having the same reach and fame as when he was at his prime, the comedian is still working and performing.

According to IMDb, Williams has had a number of recent acting jobs in television and movies. He also has a comedy series out.

In the year following his apparent retirement, he appeared in three TV specials and Scary Movie V was released.