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Shaq Spotted In Santa Clarita Delivering Pizza For Papa John’s

Shaquille O’Neal, also known as Shaq, was spotted in Santa Clarita Wednesday delivering pizza for Papa John’s after the basketball star recently became a brand ambassador for the pizza chain.

O’Neal is a joint-venture franchise owner of nine stores in the Atlanta area, a board of directors member and a brand ambassador for Papa John’s, according to Blair Klayko, a spokesperson for the company.

“It was insane,” said Dariana Ortiz, manager of the Newhall location. “Shaq came in with his bus. Everyone in the plaza came to take pictures.”

Shaq was “down to earth,” according to Ortiz, and even took the time to deliver a few pies.

“He was so nice. He even delivered pizzas to schools, businesses and fire departments in the area,” Ortiz said.

The former Lakers center closed on an investment in June for nine Atlanta-based Papa John’s restaurants, according to a statement from company officials.

“He was recently in Los Angeles working on forthcoming projects for the brand, including supporting local franchisees,” Klayko said.

The existing Papa John’s stores include one newly-remodeled location featuring design elements selected by O’Neal himself, including his signature on the front of the building and his legendary size 22 footprints at the front door, the statement said.

“I am thrilled to be taking my investment in Papa John’s to the next level,” O’Neal said. “My investment shows my commitment to the company and was a natural fit. I’ve been a fan of Papa John’s pizza since my days playing basketball at LSU. I could not be prouder of what we have in store for Atlanta as we strive to deliver the city a great pizza experience.”

The basketball legend’s investment in nine Atlanta-based Papa John’s franchises further signals O’Neal’s desire to be a “triple threat” for the company as board of directors member, brand ambassador, and now, a franchise investor.

“Papa John’s franchisees are entrepreneurs who have a shared passion for pizza and the communities they serve. Shaquille is no exception,” said Steve Ritchie, CEO of Papa John’s. “Shaquille’s experience in the restaurant industry and his love for our products make him a welcome addition to our team.”


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Shaq Spotted In Santa Clarita Delivering Pizza For Papa John’s

9 comments

  1. OMG! Here in SCV?! Wow! Wish I could’ve seen him! ?

  2. Was he delivering in a semi-truck?

  3. Wow, that kind of commitment from Shaq speaks volumes of his work ethic and leadership. Kudos to the big man!!!

  4. Misleading. This was nothing but a publicity stunt so no reason to make a big deal about it. I’d be more impressed if he was delivering them in an old beat up hyundai to normal every day people like the regular folk do. PJs is a racist ass pizza chain anyways and their pizza sucks.

  5. That’s really great he came through and was able to deliver his PJ’s pizza to the residents of Santa Clarita. I’m sure he put a smile on someone’s face. Too bad he wasn’t able to attend the back to school giveaway hosted by The Boys & Girls Club in the San Fernando Valley (PACOIMA) a few weeks ago that he was scheduled to be at. My daughter has been a member of that B & G Club of Pacoima for many years and was extremely excited to meet (see) him and the other NBA stars on the field trip slip list. I know for a fact that would have made her day as well as the other children that were eagerly looking forward to being graced with his presence.

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About Devon Miller

Devon Miller was born and raised in Santa Clarita. He joined KHTS Radio as a digital marketing intern in September of 2017, and later moved to news as a staff writer in December. Miller attended College of the Canyons and served as the Associated Student Government President. Miller is now News Director for KHTS, covering breaking news and politics across the Santa Clarita Valley.