In the aftermath of his recent China comments, NBA star LeBron James has become the subject of a parody by long-running animated series South Park.
In the episode, character Eric Cartman is protesting his school’s decision to move to plant-based foods in the cafeteria. During his comedic diatribe, Cartman quotes one of James’ tweets on freedom of speech.
“We all talk about freedom of speech,” Cartman says. “Yes, we do have freedom of speech, but at times there are ramifications for the negative that can happen when you are not thinking about others and only thinking about yourself.”
The parody was a reference to James’ comments on Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey voicing his support for the protests in Hong Kong.
For those unfamiliar, Morey posted a now-deleted tweet showing support for the pro-democracy demonstrations in Hong Kong. In the wake of Morey’s tweet, the Chinese Basketball Association announced its decision to end ties with the Houston Rockets and not broadcast their games.
James later commented on Morey’s tweet in a later interview with reporters.
“I don’t want to get into a feud with Daryl Morey but I believe he wasn’t educated on the situation at hand and he spoke,” James said. “So many people could have been harmed not only financially but physically, emotionally, spiritually. So, just be careful what we tweet and what we say and what we do, even though yes we do have freedom of speech but it can be a lot of negative that comes with that, too.”
James’ own comments drew backlash from many on social media who perceived him as siding with China, which led to a later tweet from the NBA superstar.
Let me clear up the confusion. I do not believe there was any consideration for the consequences and ramifications of the tweet. I’m not discussing the substance. Others can talk About that.
— LeBron James (@KingJames) October 15, 2019
Watch the South Park parody below:
READ MORE:
‘Space Jam 2’: Terence Nance Confirmed To Direct LeBron James In Film, Ryan Coogler To Produce
Photo: Lampson Yip – Clicks Images/Getty Images
From Harlem to Hollywood, get the Black entertainment news you need in your inbox daily.
