Skip to main content

Charles Barkley Recalls Interesting John Madden Story

Las Vegas Raiders legendary Coach John Madden wasn't pleased with how comedian Frank Caliendo impersonated him.
  • Author:
  • Updated:
    Original:

Las Vegas Raiders legendary, Super Bowl-winning coach John Madden wasn't just well renowned by the Raiders franchise, but he's also regarded as one of the greatest football coaches ever.

Every coach has his philosophies, customs, and mannerisms, and when you're one of the best, those all stand out more than they do for others.

Madden was one of the many subjects of impersonation for comedian Frank Caliendo, one of the most iconic impressionists of all time.

NBA legend Charles Barkley, another of Caliendo's subjects, recalled a story of Madden and his disdain for the comedian when he joined Barstool Sports' "Spittin' Chiclets" podcast.

"I remember this phone call I got from my agent," Barkley said. "He says, 'Hey, John Madden wants to talk to you.' ... I said: 'Hey, you're the best. It's an honor and a privilege.' He says: 'Well thank you, blah, blah, blah,' and he says" 'Hey, I want to talk to you about a lawsuit I'm thinking about filing against this a--hole, Frank Caliendo.'"

Barkley said Madden hated the comedian's impression of him [Madden].

"I was like: 'Mr. Madden, I don't even know how to say this to you, like, you don't consider that flattering?' He's like; 'No, I don't consider it [flattering]."

With intentions of not insulting Madden, Barkley then said that he would call his agent and reach back out to him. But he never did get back to Madden.

According to an article from Darrelle Lincoln of Total Pro Sports, Madden and Caliendo eventually met at Super Bowl XLV. Caliendo has said he demonstrated his impersonation of Madden in front of his grandchildren, which made them laugh.

The Raiders' offseason workout schedule is as follows:

OTA Offseason workouts: May 22-23, May 25, May 31-June 2, June 12-15

Mandatory Minicamp: June 6-8

Please tell us your thoughts when you like our Facebook Page WHEN YOU CLICK RIGHT HERE.