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Shaquille O’Neal, often called Shaq, is a retired NBA player turned into a well known media figure. His large stature has also gained notice and is even the main topic of recent funny and lighthearted moments.
Shaq is known for his humor and he showed this on an episode of SNL from the late 90's while Kelsey Grammer hosted. He stole the show in his sketches to the point one had to get cut because of the potential of outshining the actual host. Will Ferrell had this take in a recent podcast that has brought this story back into media attention .
One popular memory from Will Ferrell was that a cut sketch which showcased all of the SNL cast members were picking on Ferrell causing him to cry and Shaq coming up to sing the "No One's Gonna Hurt My Little Man." Shaq's comedic moments that have happened were organic and added a very specific element which lead to an overall funny environment to create this idea.
Ferrell also mentioned a prank in 2013 while he was dressed as a security guard. He snuck into Staples Center and escorted Shaq out. Shaq played along showing both a great friendship and how comfortable the NBA Legend is in all different situations. They had an equal understanding for comedy.
One specific experience made an imprint on those that viewed online recently when Shaquille came into contact with Olivier Rioux also known as the worlds tallest teenager and a current Florida Gator basketball player, as well as his own daughters team.
Shaq posed face to face with Rioux in a comical stance showcasing both their difference in height as well as Shaq’s usually large size compared to normal human beings. The interaction has now gone viral with much praise from social media users who were enjoying this rare instance of a person that made Shaq look less intimidating because of their size.
Rioux plays basketball for the Florida Gators men's basketball team with strong athletic skills. The 7’9’ Canadian is only 18 years old and he holds a Guinness World Record for his height during his teenage years. Rioux also idolized Shaq, choosing to wear jersey #32 like both Shaq and Magic Johnson.
Rioux is making a similar path as Shaq did through college. Even with a late start at sports he has improved his play to something notable for all the those that are a part of the world of NCAA sports.
"In The Heart of the Sea” was initially a box office flop in 2015 is seeing new streaming success on Netflix. It highlights an older movie that included both Chris Hemsworth and Tom Holland. This highlights an old title that with the new technology of streaming has finally had its moment.
The film has a great cast with familiar faces such as Tom Holland and Cillian Murphy and more, but was mostly forgotten by viewers until it's time on Netflix as a top viewed film on their platform. It shows how movies from years past have the opportunity to take a new breath in different viewing landscapes today and bring an older story back to the spotlight.