Actor and comedian Michael Rapaport has found himself at the center of a social media storm, accused of brushing aside the contentious past of wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, which encompasses a notorious racist tirade and allegations of infidelity leveled by his ex-wife, Linda Hogan.
In a recent video, the 55-year-old Rapaport addressed the "disrespect" he perceived online towards Hogan following the wrestler's demise in late July 2025. "That's precisely what we won't do," he declared, emphasizing, "We will not dishonor Hulk Hogan."
As Rapaport elaborated, the podcast host made it clear that Hogan's "controversies beyond the squared circle" left him unperturbed. "I couldn't care less about his endorsement of [Donald] Trump, or the controversial matters; we shall not disrespect the man with the legendary 18-inch pythons," he added. "Forget about you, sicko adult," Rapaport continued. "Think of the children."
Although Rapaport didn't specify which of Hogan's past scandals he was downplaying, many inferred he was alluding to the infamous 2007 racist outburst where Hogan expressed dismay over his daughter, Brooke Hogan, dating a Black man, admitting, "I suppose we're all a tad racist." The transcript, authenticated by several sources, also captured Hogan saying, "I mean, if she were to sleep with some nigger, I'd rather she marry an 8-foot-tall nigger worth a hundred million dollars!"
Promptly afterward, the WWE severed ties with Hogan, asserting in a statement their commitment to embracing individuals from diverse backgrounds.
On Instagram, Rapaport's remarks drew swift condemnation. "It's typical of a white man to defend another white man," one commentator scoffed. "Not surprising at all." Another quipped, "This is precisely why he should steer clear of black people's affairs. I've stated it before, and I'll say it again!" A third chimed in, "We couldn't care less about him or you! RIP Malcolm-Jamal Warner." A fourth user added, "Yeah, he's always struck me as problematic. Never wanted him at our cookouts."
Years down the line, in a 2015 statement to PEOPLE, Hogan apologized for using "offensive language," branding his behavior "unacceptable." He further stated that there was "no excuse" for his actions before affirming his belief in equality for all. "This is not who I am. I firmly believe that every individual in the world is significant and should not be discriminated against based on race, gender, orientation, religious beliefs, or any other factor," Hogan said at the time. "I'm disappointed in myself for using offensive language that contradicts my own beliefs."
However, Hogan's racist tirade wasn't the only major controversy to mar his career. According to PEOPLE, Linda Hogan filed for divorce in 2007 after 24 years of marriage, citing her WWE legend husband's "infidelities." Years later, she opened up about their tumultuous family dynamic in an emotional video, describing it as "the worst mess."
Hogan passed away in late July 2025 from cardiac arrest, aged 71. Fellow WWE stars like Ric and Charlotte Flair posted heartfelt tributes, expressing how much he meant to their family. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson also shared a statement, recalling their epic "Icon vs. Icon" showdown at "WrestleMania 18." Johnson reminisced about the "electric" crowd, adding, "It takes two to tango, but that historic crowd reaction was solely yours."
The "Game Plan" actor hailed Hogan as one of the most exceptional WWE personalities ever. "...you 'drew the house,' meaning you sold out arenas and stadiums across the nation in your prime as Hulk Hogan, paving your way to becoming the greatest of all time," Johnson penned in his post. "From the depths of my soul, and on behalf of this wild and eclectic world of professional wrestling we cherish, I say to you now, and forever, thank you for the house, brother... Thank you for the house," he added.
