After more than four decades at the helm of one of Birmingham’s most well-known entertainment venues, Bruce Ayers has announced his retirement and the sale of The Stardome Comedy Club.
In a statement titled “A Grateful Legacy,” Ayers reflected on more than 42 years of owning and operating The Stardome, along with seven years prior spent running some of Birmingham’s most respected nightclubs. He described the decision to step into retirement as one made with “deep gratitude.”
Ayers emphasized that The Stardome was never just a business, but a family commitment. Since 1984, he worked closely alongside his wife, CheChe, his daughters Gina Zimmerman, Dena Dow, and the late Sheena Ayers, as well as his son-in-law Rodney Zimmerman. Together, they navigated long nights, challenges, rebuilds, and what Ayers described as countless unforgettable moments.
Beyond his immediate family, Ayers highlighted the hundreds of employees who passed through The Stardome over the years, including servers, bartenders, cooks, hosts, technicians, managers, and staff. He credited their dedication, loyalty, and pride for helping shape the venue into what it became.
The Stardome also earned a reputation as a home stage for some of the biggest names in comedy. Ayers noted that performers such as Sinbad, Steve Harvey, James Gregory, Rickey Smiley, Rodney Carrington, and many others regularly took the stage there. He expressed appreciation to the agents and managers who trusted the club’s reputation and commitment to providing a first-class experience for talent.
Ayers also thanked media outlets throughout central Alabama and beyond for their continued support over the years. He confirmed that The Stardome has been sold and shared his hope that the new owners will honor what has been built and continue the legacy of laughter, integrity, and world-class entertainment.
In closing, Ayers expressed gratitude to audiences, past and present employees, and everyone who walked through the doors of The Stardome, thanking them for turning the venue into a home and a lifetime of work into a lasting legacy.
He said he leaves this chapter with humility, pride, and gratitude.