Australian comedian Brett Blake has shared an unforgettable story about his recent brush with basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal.
Appearing on Triple M Breakfast with Marto, Margaux & Dan, Blake opened up about filming a commercial in the United States alongside the NBA Hall of Famer.
The pair had teamed up for a PointsBet campaign, and for Blake, the experience was unforgettable.
‘They took us over to America and I did an ad with Shaquille O’Neal which is like, I will remember that day on my deathbed,’ Blake said.
‘It was one of the coolest things I’ve done in my life.’
While on set, Blake witnessed something he’ll never forget – a moment of generosity that revealed a lesser-known side of the basketball giant.
Shaquille O’Neal shares a laugh with Aussie comedian Brett Blake during filming of their PointsBet commercial
Blake goofs around, pretending to do a shoey with one of Shaq’s notirously large sneakers
‘A lady rocked up to the set, and her car broke down on the way, so Shaq bought her a brand new sixty thousand dollar Chrysler, just handed her the keys…’ Blake said.
As a comedian known for his honesty, Blake couldn’t resist adding a dose of self-deprecating humour.
‘The worst part was technically I was homeless at the time,’ he admitted.
‘I was living in a camper trailer by Rosebud Beach. I was like Shaq, buy me a house. Come on brother.’
Blake, who hails from Forrestfield in Western Australia, has become one of the most recognisable faces in Aussie comedy.
Known for his raw storytelling, distinctive mullet, and high-energy sets, he’s never afraid to laugh at himself.
He often draws on his turbulent youth in his material. At 17, Blake was charged with inciting a riot and assaulting a police officer – a turning point he explores in his 2025 show Little Turd, which earned him a nomination for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Award for Most Outstanding Show.
Beyond stand-up, Blake is a familiar presence on Aussie screens, having appeared on The Project, Common Sense, and The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Gala.
Shaq surprised a woman on set with a $60,000 Chrysler, leaving cast and crew stunned by his kindness
He also co-hosts two comedy podcasts: Flat Stick with Nick Capper and Work Hates with Bron Lewis.
His specials Bogan Genius and Go Hard or Go Home have cemented his place as a fan favourite, both at home and increasingly abroad.
But it was his chance encounter with Shaquille O’Neal that gave Blake an entirely new perspective on fame, wealth, and generosity.
Shaq, born in Newark, New Jersey in 1972, is not just one of the most dominant players in NBA history – he’s also known for his big heart and even bigger personality.
After a 19-year career that saw him win four NBA championships, three Finals MVPs and a regular season MVP, O’Neal retired as one of the sport’s greatest ever. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.
But post-retirement, Shaq’s star has only grown. He’s built a career in music, acting, TV commentary, and business – and is now considered a global icon both on and off the court.
What makes him stand out, Blake says, is not just his fame, but his character.
‘He’s just the nicest guy in the world,’ Blake said. ‘You would not expect it.’
