5 Years Before Severing His Ties With ‘Fat Boy’ Charles Barkley, Michael Jordan Credited Him For Not Doing Parents’ Jobs

Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley had a fantastic relationship that could not withstand the test of time. A relationship fostered in the NBA was taken apart by the comments made by Charles on his friend’s ownership style. It’s been more than a decade since they had a conversation as they continue their separate lives despite being prominent public figures. However, just five years before the fall-off, Michael was seen roasting him in an interview by GQ.

Jordan and Barkley were fierce competitors on the NBA court, having faced each other in the NBA finals. However, off the court was completely different. They often spent their off days playing golf, going to clubs, and appearing on talk shows and interviews, among other activities. They had plenty of fun at the expense of each other, and the fans loved every moment of it.

Michael Jordan appreciates Charles Barkley

In an interview dated October 2007, Michael Jordan spoke to GQ about his life, career, friends, and everything he has withstood to achieve success. He also took the opportunity to roast his friend, Charles Barkley, by calling him a ‘fat boy’ before appreciating him for speaking his mind. When asked by the reporter, here is what Michael said:

“For instance, when he came out and said, “I’m not a role model.” I realized we’re really not. We assume that responsibility because of the respect we’re given. But we can’t tell these kids they can be us. When he first came out with that, I was like, “Wow, he’s right.” Because your parents are your role models, or your grandparents or your aunt.”

Famous personalities, including athletes, are held to different standards by the media. They are expected to show the common people a path they could follow to achieve success. However, as mentioned above, Charles had a different view, and Michael appreciated him for putting across his thoughts. According to them, it’s unfair to criticize athletes for not being role models to the younger generation, as the parents hold that responsibility.

Charles Barkley’s iconic ‘Role Model’advertisment

Sneaker giants ‘Nike’ took full advantage of the statements made by Chuck. They featured an advertisement with the basketball superstar proudly stating that he is not a role model. He further said parents should be role models. The iconic advertisement went viral and immediately garnered a lot of controversy.

The bold statements made by Barkley received positive reviews but also put him in trouble for sending across a controversial message. The advertisement was meant to appreciate the parents while taking the burden of athletes. Even if the message did not go through, the advertisement certainly became a part of history.