TNT’s Billion Dollar Partner Shatters Charles Barkley With False Hopes on His Birthday

It was Charles Barkley’s 62nd birthday, and he had just one wish—a win from Team USA. During the final practice ahead of the 4 Nations Face-Off Final against Canada, Barkley hopped on a FaceTime call with American forwards Matthew Tkachuk and Dylan Larkin. And as always, he got straight to the point. “I can’t wait for tomorrow night. I’m gonna celebrate my birthday in style watching you guys kick some a– brother.” Though Chuck only wanted one gift, why would others stop from ‘gifting’ more?

During the Inside the NBA, Ernie Johnson announces a special gift from HBO. “We all experienced an escape,” Johnson teased, setting the scene for what sounded like the ultimate getaway. “How does this sound—exotic beaches, impeccable cuisine? We get a ring spa treatment in an intoxicating and tranquil environment. All of us and our families are invited to take in the splendor of Thailand. That’s right, fellas.”

And, Chuck and Kenny Smith erupted with joy, smiling ear to ear before high-fiving each other. But just as their dreams of paradise were taking shape, Johnson dropped the punchline.

“It is the experience of a lifetime,” he continued, “and you know how you get that experience? You watch the new episodes of The White Lotus every Sunday at 9. HBO’s Emmy award-winning series is back!”

Barkley’s face fell instantly. “That’s the worst thing ever… Ernie, that wasn’t funny,” he shot back, utterly unimpressed by the billion-dollar company’s gift. But Shaquille O’Neal found the prank hilarious. “That was too funny,” he said, barely containing his laughter.

And speaking of jokes, Shaq had his birthday surprise for Chuck. “You watch Sanford and Son?” he asked. When Barkley nodded, Shaq pressed further. “Who’s the main character?” “Fred Sanford… Red Fox,” Barkley answered. Without missing a beat, Shaq grinned. “So I bought you this Red Fox.”

With that, Shaq pulled out an oversized red fur jacket, and Barkley wasted no time slipping it on. He immediately started dancing in the most exaggerated, over-the-top way possible, shaking his hips as Shaq cheered him on.

“Hands on your knees Hands on your knees. Hands on your knees. ….Happy birthday Chuck,” Shaq chanted, egging him on. It wasn’t the exotic vacation Barkley was hoping for, but at least he got a birthday moment that no one would forget.

Inside the NBA crew celebrates Charles Barkley’s birthday

On Charles Barkley’s 62nd birthday, Inside the NBA co-hosts didn’t hold back. Instead of a traditional cake, they surprised him with something that perfectly matched his taste—62 lemon bars stacked like a birthday cake.

Ernie Johnson kicked things off, making sure the moment felt special. And Chuck took the central stage dressed in a Team USA jersey, ready to support the U.S. in the 4 Nations Championship final against Canada.

“Huge day for the Chuckster, because it is birthday No. 62,” Ernie announced, pointing to the dessert. “What you have in front of you, Chuckster, your favorite, lemon bars—62 of them. I don’t know if they’ll last the pre-game show.”

Barkley, never one to miss a beat, leaned into the joke. “Are you serious? What’s y’all gonna eat?” he quipped, eyeing the mountain of lemony goodness. But the moment wasn’t all laughs. With a rare touch of sentiment, he added, “I can’t wait for the hockey game tonight. But I want to thank every person sending me a text today.”

And just like that, with a perfect mix of jokes and genuine gratitude, the Chuckster stepped into another year—ready to deliver more unfiltered analysis, sharp one-liners, and his trademark humor.