NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is renowned for his larger-than-life demeanor when he mingles with people in public.
That same energy surfaced again when “Shaq” recently popped up in a workout clip with a well-known Instagram creator at a gym, though O’Neal faced some online backlash over what some perceived as an intrusive approach.
The woman seemed to be in the middle of a set on a machine when O’Neal surprised her from behind.
The 7-foot-1 icon playfully introduced himself to the woman as LeBron James, according to a voiceover the creator added to her now-viral clip.
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While the woman seemed to enjoy the unexpected moment with O’Neal, a portion of social media commenters found it awkward and suggested the former NBA star might not be viewed as favorably if he weren’t a celebrity.
“Don’t try this if you ain’t got shaq money cuz she not gonna laugh,” Instagram user dregothits wrote.
“Rich and famous privilege is truly a thing cause if this was any other (guy), they’d be talking bout how he’s a ‘creep’ or ‘weirdo,’” X user @chiefflips added about the viral clip.
The video of the exchange between O’Neal and the woman can be seen below; be warned that it does include NSFW language.
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Danielle Brooks
I am a staff writer at New York Beacon, where I focus on culture, entrepreneurship, and the emerging voices redefining Black America. My work highlights innovators, artists, and founders whose stories often unfold beyond mainstream headlines but shape communities in meaningful ways. Through precise reporting and thoughtful storytelling, I aim to document progress, challenge narratives, and contribute to a stronger Black press tradition.