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via Imago
Jan 19, 2025; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Former NBA player Shaquille O’Neal sits courtside during the first half between the Florida Gators and the LSU Tigers at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
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via Imago
Jan 19, 2025; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Former NBA player Shaquille O’Neal sits courtside during the first half between the Florida Gators and the LSU Tigers at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
Shaquille O’Neal himself was quite stunned by the revelation. The Big Podcast is back with interesting guests and even more fascinating stories. Kicking off the newest episode of the show with Big Aristotle was the famed comedian who also featured in Wild ‘N Out star. The fun was interrupted when the comedian revealed his next destination. After wrapping up the show, the comedian will gear up to head to another event, one that O’Neal used to be heavily involved with, All-Star Comedy Jam. His name was once part of the show as well. Is he still part of it?
When O’Neal’s guest, DC Young Fly, mentioned that he would be performing at the show that evening after The Big Podcast, a genuine shock appeared on O’Neal’s face. However, what followed was a revelation that took everyone by surprise and even O’Neal and host Adam Lefkoe. DC Young said, “We got a show out here tonight. I just really be flying coming to pick up my money…It’s the All Star Comedy Jam they had your name on.”
To make sure that his guest was referring to the same event that he was involved with, O’Neal even asked him again. After giving a firm response to O’Neal, the comedian further asked, “They are like we can’t use Shaq no more.” Lefkoe appeared quite baffled as well. O’Neal swiftly handled the situation, stating that he would take care of it later. “I’ll figure it out,” O’Neal said.
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DC Young Fly even suggested that he would drop the show if O’Neal wanted him to, but O’Neal discouraged him from doing so. The reason behind O’Neal’s absence from the show remains unknown, as he himself seemed surprised. However, it could be because O’Neal had already sold his Jersey Legends Productions to Authentic Brands Group, likely in 2023.
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USA Today via Reuters
May 22, 2022; Dallas, Texas, USA; Former NBA player and sports analyst Shaquille O’Neal enters the arena before game three of the 2022 western conference finals between the Dallas Mavericks and the Golden State Warriors at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Jersey Legends is one of the companies behind the event. And since the event was established long before ABG acquired the company, it probably holds no rights to it. However, the real reason behind O’Neal’s absence remains unclear. The Big Aristotle was also present at the 2022 All-Star Comedy Jam.
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The 2022 Star Comedy Jam was a big hit
Back in 2022, the event took place just ahead of Super Bowl Weekend 59 in Los Angeles. It was organized by a company named Laugh Out Loud, which was founded by Kevin Hart and Jeff Clanagan served as CEO. Earthquake, Mo’Nique, and Blackson several others performed at the event.
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Speaking of the Los Angeles Lakers legend event, Clanagan said, “There is nothing like a night of live comedy, and I couldn’t be more excited about the return of All Star Comedy Jam.” He added, “What started as an idea between Shaq and I for a comedy show during All-Star weekend, has grown into a true comedy staple that showcases some of the heaviest hitters in comedy alongside the most promising up-and-comers, and this return feels better than ever.”
O’Neal and the company Hartbeat collaborated to launch All-Star Comedy Jam. It has since become one of the most popular platforms for both renowned comedians and rising talents. Bill Bellamy, DeRay Davis, and Michael Blackson are some of the comedians who have previously performed at the event.
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Is Shaq's absence from All-Star Comedy Jam a sign of changing times in comedy?
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