Shaq’s been on TV for quite a while… as part of the team hosting the TNT network’s “Inside the NBA” series during basketball season. But now that season is on hold, and other Shaq-opportunities are cropping up.
This week marked the beginning of a new Shaq-venture. Every Thursday night on TNT is now becoming “Shaq Night.” It’s a takeoff on old-time TV movie nights where the host(s) would be watching the movie along with you, adding their commentary, jokes and conversation as the movie went along. Some networks (including FX) still do similar “hosted” movies.
Along with the movies we’ll be watching with Shaq and guests, each Thursday will also be the premiere night for the new reality series – you guessed it – “Shaq Life.”
As for Shaq Life (see the trailer video below), it’ll air at 9 p.m. Eastern time each week, and will offer what producers are calling a closer look into the big man’s life. The trailer shows some of that real-life action, including his business dealings as a member of the Board of Directors of the Papa John’s pizza chain. There’s also a lot of personal material, like shooting hoops with his kids. The episodes are narrated by actor Samuel L. Jackson, so expect plenty of interesting goings-on.
In a recent press release, Shaq said, “I can’t wait for viewers to join me on Thursday nights. I hope ‘ShaqNight’ will deliver laughs, fun, and entertainment into people’s homes at a time when we need it most.”
Of course with the current health and safety issues still bubbling up around the country, a lot of this show – like many of the late-night “live” programs – will be done “virtually.” Shaq and his cast of famous friends and other guests will be appearing from their own homes.
Shaq says along with the movies and commentary from guests, be on the lookout for guests competing against each other in “boredom buster” games, and dance sessions, with music provided by – of course! – Shaq’s alter ego, DJ Diesel.
To celebrate the “ShaqNight” premiere the show’s producers and Shaq made a donation to the Boys & Girls Club of America. Moving forward, the TNT network will donate to a different charitable organization. Someone from that organization will also be one of the guest stars of the night’s program. Very cool!