Shaquille O’Neal Denies Flirty DMs to Sabrina Carpenter

NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has publicly addressed and debunked viral claims that he sent explicit direct messages to singer Sabrina Carpenter. The alleged messages, which circulated on social media earlier this month, prompted O’Neal to respond on his podcast, “The Big Podcast with Shaq.”

The Viral Rumor

Screenshots purportedly showing a conversation between O’Neal and Carpenter began circulating online, featuring suggestive and explicit language. One alleged message read, “Damn, baby. I would keep your farts in a cologne bottle and spray it on me every day. Just jokes, I’m Shaq baby, what’s your name?” Carpenter was allegedly replied: “I know who you are, you’re way too famous to be sending me messages like that.” Further alleged messages included graphic content and propositions.

Shaq’s Response

On the March 20th episode of his podcast, O’Neal dismissed the messages as fabricated. “First of all, ladies, the Diesel got way more game than that,” O’Neal stated, referencing his nickname. He read aloud some of the alleged messages, expressing disbelief at their content. O’Neal acknowledged a photoshopped image of himself had been added to the seemingly AI-created messages. US Magazine reported on the incident.

AI and Digital Fabrication

O’Neal and his podcast guest, rapper Jim Jones, discussed the ease with which convincing but false content can be created online, particularly with advancements in artificial intelligence and digital editing. Jones noted that people are “spending their energy and time” on creating such content when they could be focused on more productive activities. Times Now News highlighted this aspect of the situation.

Previous Rumors

This isn’t the first time O’Neal has addressed rumors about his personal life online. In October, he denied claims of a romantic involvement with OnlyFans model Sophie Rain after they were seen together in Las Vegas, stating, “I don’t [date] that young.” E! Online reported on this previous incident.

The Bigger Picture

The incident with Sabrina Carpenter underscores the growing concern about the spread of misinformation and the potential for AI to create convincingly fake content. O’Neal’s swift response and public denial serve as a reminder to be critical of information encountered online and to verify its authenticity before accepting it as fact. The Daily Mail also covered the story.