Kobe Bryant ‘had a flaw that we all know about’, says TV host in reference to rape case
Charles Barkley was discussing the allegation as part of the late basketball player’s legacy
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.TV host Charles Barkley said Kobe Bryant “had a flaw that we all know about”, when discussing the late basketballer’s rape case as part of his legacy.
Bryant was killed in a helicopter crash with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others in January.
Before his death, Bryant was accused of sexual assault by a 19-year-old female hotel employee in Colorado. She refused to testify in a trial, resulting in the charges being dropped. After the pair settled a civil lawsuit, Bryant issued a public apology, acknowledging that the woman did not consider the incident consensual.
Inside the NBA co-host and former player Barkley told the Today show that the allegation against Bryant is part of his legacy.
“You have to tell the picture in totality,” said Barkley. “We’re not making Kobe out to be no hero. We’re celebrating his basketball excellence. We understand what happened in Colorado. That’s fair, but two things can be true.”
He later added: “Kobe Bryant is one of the greatest basketball players ever. And he had a flaw that we all know about.”
Broadcaster Gayle King recently faced a backlash for mentioning Bryant’s rape case in an interview. Snoop Dogg was among those to lash out with threats before apologising.
Last year, a political reporter accused Barkley of threatening to hit her after she asked him to clarify which 2020 Democratic presidential candidate he supports. He later apologised.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments