Why Shaquille O’Neal Refuses to Call Himself a ‘Celebrity’: ‘I Never Want to Be in That Category
Although Shaquille O’Neal has achieved a level of fame akin to Cher, earning the iconic moniker “Shaq,” he adamantly rejects the label of “celebrity.” The NBA Hall of Famer, with an illustrious basketball career, a role as a TNT analyst, and numerous endorsement deals, remains grounded. He shuns the stereotypical celebrity attitude, emphasizing that he never wanted to adopt an air of superiority.
Despite being one of the nation’s most recognizable figures, O’Neal consciously avoids traveling with an entourage and refrains from flaunting his wealth and jewelry. This humility, he attributes to his mother, Lucille O’Neal, who sternly discouraged ostentatious behavior. O’Neal recalls a moment when his mother confronted him about such conduct, showing him footage and making it clear that such behavior was unnecessary.
Since that incident, O’Neal prides himself on maintaining an ordinary life. He engages in spontaneous acts of kindness, such as buying computers or bikes for kids. Occasionally participating in pickup basketball games, he doesn’t shy away from mingling with everyday people, even hosting events like the Shaq’s Fun House party at Wynn Las Vegas’ XS nightclub during Super Bowl weekend.
Despite his towering stature and unique presence on the basketball court, O’Neal identifies as an everyday person. Refusing to seclude himself in VIP areas or employ a security entourage, he insists, “I’m just a guy that played in the NBA.” Reflecting on his unconventional path to basketball, having initially pursued football, O’Neal humorously muses that if not for an injury, he might have been a tight end for the Dallas Cowboys. A football enthusiast, he even jests about donning cowboy boots and a hat if the Cowboys make it to Las Vegas for Super Bowl LVIII.
