FX's new limited series 'Clipped' explores the controversial 2014 NBA scandal involving former Clippers owner Donald Sterling's racist remarks. Based on the ESPN 30 for 30 podcast 'The Sterling Affairs,' the series features strong performances from Ed O'Neill, Laurence Fishburne, and Cleopatra Coleman. The show not only revisits the scandal but also highlights the personal and professional impacts on the team and the NBA.
The FX limited series 'Clipped' has brought the infamous Donald Sterling scandal back into public discourse. Premiering on Hulu, the series is based on the real events of 2014 when Sterling, then-owner of the LA Clippers, was recorded making racist comments, leading to a lifetime NBA ban. The show draws from the ESPN 30 for 30 podcast 'The Sterling Affairs,' providing a dramatized, in-depth look at the personal and professional turmoil that ensued within the Clippers organization and the broader NBA community.
The core of 'Clipped' revolves around the explosive leak of Sterling's racist comments during the Clippers' playoff run in 2014. The series portrays the immediate backlash from the media, fans, and NBA players, highlighting the tension within the team as they navigated the playoffs amidst the controversy. Laurence Fishburne's portrayal of Coach Doc Rivers emphasizes the leadership challenges faced during this period, striving to keep the team focused despite the turmoil. The show delves into the complexities of the scandal, not just its public fallout but also its personal impact on those involved, including Sterling's wife Shelly and his assistant V. Stiviano, who recorded the conversations.
The casting of 'Clipped' has been pivotal in bringing the complex characters to life. Ed O'Neill's portrayal of Donald Sterling offers a nuanced view of the disgraced owner, while Jacki Weaver plays Shelly Sterling, capturing her transformation from a perceived passive spouse to a decisive leader who ultimately takes control of the team. Cleopatra Coleman's role as V. Stiviano explores the personal dimensions of a figure central to the scandal's outbreak. The series has been noted for its strong performances, which add depth to the real-life figures portrayed.
Beyond the immediate scandal, 'Clipped' explores the lasting changes in the NBA's approach to ownership and ethics. The series reflects on how the incident prompted the NBA to reevaluate its policies concerning racism and discrimination, influencing future governance of the league. It also touches on the broader societal reactions and the dialogue around race and leadership in sports. The show's depiction of the legal and personal battles that followed the scandal provides viewers with a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges of navigating such a public controversy in a professional sports league.
FX's 'Clipped' not only revisits the Donald Sterling scandal but also serves as a critical examination of the events and their aftermath. Through compelling storytelling and strong character-driven performances, the series offers a multifaceted look at the personal and professional impacts of the scandal. It highlights the challenges of leadership in crisis, the consequences of public outrage, and the NBA's journey towards greater accountability and ethical governance.