Gayle King Blurts Out Details of “Secret Meeting” With Charles Barkley That Saved CNN’s New Show

Published 01/10/2024, 8:33 AM EST

One of TV’s most prominent voices might be hanging up their boots soon. Yes, that’s right, folks. Charles Barkley is considering retirement. And. if it weren’t for a wholly unique opportunity outside his usual comfort zone, he might already be on the way. In a heartfelt conversation alongside his new co-host, Gayle King, the 1993 NBA MVP would make a shocking revelation about his plans for the future.

Due to his reluctance, even King Charles was an unlikely move. “First of all, I didn’t want to do it…I was not looking for another job. I said no. Under no circumstances do I want to be on TV more. I want to be on TV less.” That is when Gayle would drop the true shocker for fans of the Philadelphia 76ers legend.

Watch This Story: Shaquille O’Neal Surprises ‘Dummy’ Charles Barkley On New Show Premiere With Mystery Call

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“He wants to retire, he says.” The Round Mound of Rebound was quick to confirm her assertion. “I do. They said, ‘What about Gayle King?’ I said, ‘Oh, I love Gayle.’ They said would you do something with Gayle? I said Yes!” As a result, the show’s genesis then began.

However, it did require some careful hiding and planning. “So, we set up a secret meeting.” Involving just the two hosts, it was a real heart-to-heart between them. Charles would make his plans clear to his soon-to-be co-host. “I don’t wanna work anymore, but I would consider it with you.”

Thankfully, Gayle King shared the exact sentiment with the Phoenix Suns legend and we got to see more of Barkley on TV.

Like Charles Barkley, Gayle King was initially reluctant as well

While not considering retirement like the NBA legend, Gayle wasn’t particularly interested in a new role either. “The beauty of this is that neither one of us were looking for another job. We both have jobs that we really like, and we work really hard,” explained the 69-year-old broadcast journalist.

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Just like Charles, she too was against the idea. However, upon hearing about the Hall of Famer as a potential partner, King had to reconsider the offer, despite having her hesitancies beforehand about working with him. “I just thought it would be fun.”

During that secret meeting between the two, King would echo the exact words from the Chuckster. “I don’t wanna work anymore, but I would consider it with you.”

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“Money Evens Out the Ugly”: Charles Barkley Attacks ‘Ugly’ Michael Jordan’s Billionaire Status on Stephen Colbert’s Show

Fait accompli. With both parties hesitant, it is a surprise that the two were able to bring the show together.

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My earliest memories of a connection to basketball was through its popularity in my school. Eventually, that gave way to a genuine passion for the sport and the rest, is history. Whether it be gameplay, the tactics, the narratives, or the sheer art on display, the game speaks to me in a way few other things can.

Edited by:

Aakash Nair

Gayle King Blurts Out Details of “Secret Meeting” With Charles Barkley That Saved CNN’s New Show

Like Charles Barkley, Gayle King was initially reluctant as well

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