Charles Barkley, Who Earns Over $12,000,000 on Live TV, Makes Big Confession Over Media Struggles

In the realm of sports media, few personalities command attention quite like Charles Barkley. The former NBA superstar turned charismatic analyst has never been one to shy away from expressing his unfiltered opinions. Over the years, Barkley has carved out a unique career for himself with his blunt and often controversial commentary. However, this outspokenness has not come without its challenges.

During the early stages of his career, the 1993 NBA league MVP faced challenges in dealing with the media. However, Barkley eventually discovered an approach that worked for him and has remained committed to it ever since.

Charles Barkley wasn’t comfortable during his early days in the NBA

Barkley was drafted in 1984 by the Philadephia 76ers, which already had some big names. The media was focused on star players like Julius ‘Dr. J’ Erving, Moses Malone, Maurice Cheeks, and other senior members of the roster. Hence, Barkley never received an interview at the beginning of his NBA career.

However, by his third NBA season, things started positively changing for Barkley. The Chuckster became an All-Star that season, garnering some media attention. In a recent episode of the YouTube podcast Spittin? Chiclets, Barkley revealed his media struggles. The now 60-year-old landed his first interview but wasn’t comfortable handling the media.

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The 11-time NBA All-Star went to Dr. J and confessed to him, “I am having a hard time with the media thing because I am getting criticized.” Dr.J suggested Barkley make a decision. According to Barkley, he said, “Either you can make everybody happy or you can do things on your terms.”

Erving continued, “No matter what you say, half the people gonna like it and half of the people gonna dislike it.” The Round Mound of Rebound went with the latter approach of being honest with himself. The advice of Dr. J surely helped Barkley in getting a great deal in his post-NBA career.

Charles Barkley’s post-NBA income

Charles Barkley has secured a lucrative contract worth millions of dollars as an analyst for Turner TV. The 1991 All-Star game MVP is a prominent figure on the show Inside the NBA and still has three years remaining on a contract that reportedly pays him $12 million annually. In a recent development, Barkley agreed to a new 10-year deal with TNT, which will earn him over $100 million.

Despite considering retirement when he turned 60, Barkley had a change of heart due to his affection for his colleagues and the substantial paycheck he receives. The combination of camaraderie and financial benefits has convinced him to continue his work in the industry.

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Charles Barkley, who once struggled with the media’s criticism, has now made a living out of the same. Barkley is fun to watch and has made millions laugh with his commentary on the show. Have you heard of this confession before? What are your thoughts on this story? Let us know in the comments.