Photo by The world of sports is no stranger to controversy, and one of the most infamous scandals in recent memory is the saga of Donald Sterling, the former owner of the Los Angeles Clippers. In 2014, a leaked recording of Sterling making racist remarks sparked outrage across the NBA, leading to his eventual ban from the league. Now, a new FX series, ‘Clipped,’ is dramatizing the events surrounding the scandal, and it’s a wild ride.
Players take a stand against racism
The show picks up at the start of the 2014 season, with Doc Rivers (Laurence Fishburne) as the new head coach of the Clippers. Rivers is tasked with navigating the team through the tumultuous season, all while dealing with the antics of Sterling (Ed O’Neill) and his mistress, V. Stiviano (Cleopatra Coleman). The series is extremely entertaining, especially if you’re not looking for a deep dive into the complexities of race.
The man at the center of the scandal
One of the most fascinating aspects of ‘Clipped’ is its portrayal of Stiviano, who is often seen as a villain in the real-life saga. However, the show humanizes her, revealing a complex character who is desperate for fame and attention. Her storyline is perhaps the most compelling part of the series, as she navigates her relationships with Sterling and the players.
The woman at the center of the scandal
The show also delves into the world of professional sports, highlighting the power dynamics between owners and players. Sterling’s views on race are appalling, but they’re also a symptom of a larger problem in the sports world. The series raises important questions about what it means to be beholden to someone who views you as property.
The players take a stand
While ‘Clipped’ is often heavy-handed in its approach, it’s still a compelling watch. The show is full of memorable performances, particularly from Fishburne and Coleman. And even though the basketball scenes can feel a bit generic, they’re still engaging.
The coach who fought to keep his team together
In the end, ‘Clipped’ is a show about the pitfalls of wealth, ambition, fame, and power. It’s a reminder that even in the world of sports, there are real people with real feelings and motivations. And sometimes, it takes a scandal to bring those issues to the forefront.
A moment of solidarity
Overall, ‘Clipped’ is a must-watch for anyone who loves sports or is interested in the complexities of human nature. It’s a wild ride, but it’s also a thought-provoking one.
