Aries Spears first television appearance was cable's Russell Simmons' Def Comedy Jam, followed by It's Showtime at the Apollo. By the age of 17, he landed a part in the movie Malcolm X. In 1997, he became apart of the MADtv cast, which would become his most prominent role. Spear's most popular characters included Dollar Bill Montgomery, El Diablo Negro, Belma Buttons, Walter C. Hemphill, Mr. Daichai, Harvey Lachien, Mother Love, Reggie, Jameel, Brightling Greetings Employe, Mr. New Orleans Man, Emcee Esher and Blacula.