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[Saba Sports News] Marlon Wayans recently appeared on Shaquille O’Neal’s ‘Big Podcast,’ where he discussed his comedic approach and revealed some jokes he’s made about both Shaq and Magic Johnson.
When Shaq pressed him, Wayans shared a particularly offensive joke about Magic, referencing Johnson’s HIV diagnosis. Wayans joked, “I just said he had the good AIDS… What kind of AIDS is this? Financial AIDS?”
Wayans’ comments were certainly provocative, especially considering Magic Johnson’s successful life post-diagnosis. Johnson, who was diagnosed with HIV in 1991, retired from the NBA but went on to achieve remarkable success both on and off the court, including a brief return to play in the 1992 All-Star game and as part of the ‘Dream Team’ at the Olympics.
During the same interview, Wayans also recalled making Kobe Bryant upset by repeatedly joking about his teammate Pau Gasol. Kobe defended Gasol, saying he’d help him win a championship, which ultimately happened.
Despite Wayans insisting the jokes were harmless, his remarks likely upset Lakers fans, given the impact both Magic and Gasol had on the franchise’s championship history.