Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson criticized for racially charged podcast remarks about Jewish community

Former NFL stars Shannon Sharpe and Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson are facing backlash after a recent episode of their podcast sparked outrage over comments perceived as antisemitic.

The pair, who frequently discuss sports and culture, veered into controversial territory that many critics say was offensive to the Jewish community and targeted Israel inappropriately.

The conversation began when the hosts began discussing content creator Adin Ross and his admission of using the N-word.

Sharpe appeared to criticize Ross for using the term, but the discussion quickly pivoted to an unrelated group. The livestream showed Sharpe questioning why rappers and other streamers, who regularly use language offensive to Black people, never employ slurs or derogatory terms aimed at other communities, specifically the Jewish community.

"They got no problem saying those words that are offensive to black people but... there are offensive words against other people but they never utter those," Sharpe said during the show.

Johnson initially seemed confused and assumed Sharpe was referring to the LGBTQ+ community. When Sharpe clarified that he was talking about Israel and the Jewish community, even indirectly referencing Israel's flag, Johnson responded, "Oh they own every damn thing."

Sharpe added: "Exactly. Why don't they say something derogatory about that? Why don't he rap that?"

The exchange quickly drew criticism from fans and commentators who labeled the discussion offensive and inappropriate for a public platform.

Crossing the line beyond sports commentary

While Sharpe and Johnson are known for their commentary and playful banter, this segment was widely condemned for perpetuating stereotypes and promoting negative assumptions about an entire community.

Many argue that it also overshadowed their legitimate sports discussions.

This controversy comes amid other recent disputes involving Sharpe. The former Broncos tight end has weathered multiple public controversies, including a viral incident on the same podcast where he shouted at someone off-camera.

Additionally, Sharpe recently faced legal troubles, including a high-profile $50 million civil lawsuit alleging sexual assault and battery. Johnson, meanwhile, remains known for his outspoken opinions on sports culture but now also faces scrutiny for participating in these comments.

Whether the hosts issue public apologies or face broader consequences from their network remains unclear. For now, the incident has sparked online when it comes to how professional athletes address touchy subjects.