Andy Cohen mistakes 50 Cent for Shaquille O'Neal, calls him Shaq in 'awkward' New Year's Eve interview
2020 was barely hours away when Andy Cohen made a big faux pas. The 50-year-old was on hosting duty with his best friend Anderson Cooper in Times Square on 'CNN New Year's Eve Live 2020', which aired on December 31 at 8 pm ET.
While chatting with rapper 50 Cent during the live run of the show, Cohen called him 'Shaq', referring to basketball star Shaquille O'Neal.
50 Cent paused momentarily as Cohen desperately and awkwardly tried to salvage the situation by changing the topic and taking the conversation forward by talking about the massive chain worn by the rapper.
But even as Cohen's attempts for covering up were frantic, social media had already taken notice of the faux pas. "Andy Cohen had so much tequila he confused 50 Cent with Shaq," a fan tweeted.
While many thought the faux pas was hilarious, others thought it was unforgivable and the embarrassment was too much to deal with for many. "They're interviewing 50 Cent while he's wasted, live on CNN, on a delay and if it isn't awkward enough Andy Cohen just called him SHAQ," said a viewer. "Er, Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper talking to 50 Cent is probably the most awkward moment I’ve witnessed on television," agreed another.
Some fans were really angry. "@Andy is such a douche. I usually like him & watch his shows but I’m just disappointed..if kpop isn’t ur thing that’s fine but u don’t have to be a dick about it. Same goes for @andersoncooper ...Maybe lay off the shots & get ur guest names right @50cent is not @SHAQ #CNNNYE" said an angry fan.
Neither Andy nor 50 Cent spoke about the awkward interaction on their social media, but it must surely have affected the rapper who is known for his inflated ego.
