Shaquille O’Neal stopped by SiriusXM’s Andy Cohen Live this week, and the conversation quickly moved from basketball memories to reality TV possibilities.
During the interview, Shaq floated a new idea directly to Andy Cohen himself—one that would put his romantic life front and center.
Shaq proposed a dating reality series titled The Next Mrs. O’Neal, describing a lineup of potential contestants. “A lawyer, stripper, somebody from abroad and then two wild girls,” he said, laying out the concept as Cohen listened. When Andy asked if the women would be competing, Shaq confirmed, “Yes.”
Cohen then pointed out what many listeners were likely thinking: earlier in the conversation, Shaq had said he was getting married soon.
Andy asked how a fiancé might feel about a dating competition. Shaq quickly clarified that he does not have one. The proposed show, he implied, is part of the path to the wedding itself.
Cohen responded with interest, suggesting they include a Real Housewife to add another layer to the dynamic. “We can have a little Bravo crossover,” he said. Shaq agreed: “Alright, dude.”
The interview also touched on the expanding presence of former NBA names within the Real Housewives universe. When asked about Charles Oakley appearing on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Shaq said he had seen it and spoke about Oakley with respect, calling him “Uncle Charles” and crediting him with teaching him about toughness during their days competing against the Knicks.
Cohen later brought up another headline-making storyline: Scottie Pippen’s ex-wife, Larsa Pippen, dating Michael Jordan’s son, Marcus. Shaq avoided the topic, jokingly creating static noise in the microphone as Cohen laughed.
Shaq also discussed returning to the big screen. He shared that he had recently received a call from Marlon Wayans and would be appearing in the next installment of Scary Movie.
He talked about his long-running collaborations with Adam Sandler, noting that he enjoys being on sets where the atmosphere is relaxed. When asked about playing himself in films, Shaq said he typically adjusts lines in scripts so they sound natural. “I Shaq it up,” he explained.
SiriusXM’s Andy Cohen Live airs Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. ET on Radio Andy (Ch. 102) and is available on the SiriusXM app.