When HBO aired the mini-series "Winning Time," spotlighting the Los Angeles Lakers, it was only a matter of time before the LA Clippers’ own tale hit the screens. The FX mini-series "Clipped" rekindles the revealing controversy surrounding former Clippers owner Donald Sterling, who faced intense criticism in 2014 after a recording of him expressing racially insensitive comments surfaced. The incident ignited debates about the racial dynamics that pervade sports industries where predominantly Black teams generate massive earnings for their white owners.
However, the mini-series doesn't merely focus on Sterling, played by "Modern Family" star Ed O'Neill. Instead, it opts for a more comprehensive approach, diving into the viewpoints of coach Doc Rivers (Laurence Fishburne), Sterling's assistant/mistress V. Stiviano (Cleopatra Coleman), and his wife Shelley (Jacki Weaver). The show argues it was Shelley's attempts to squash Stiviano's presence in Sterling's life and reclaim property acquired during their relationship, that triggered this entire debacle.
Of equal importance are the voices from the 2014 Clippers team, shedding light on the impact on the players. Particularly highlighted is DeAndre Jordan, portrayed as highly conflicted about even wanting to continue in the playoffs after the scandal.
"Clipped," packed with memorable characters and ideas, seeks to offer a fresh perspective rather than rehashing the known details of the Sterling drama. One notable rendition is Coleman's portrayal of Stiviano, refraining from casting her as a mere vengeful gold digger.
Although the series insightfully explores the Sterling controversy’s deeper layers, it's criticized for devoting copious time to Shelley's angle on the story, which critics have termed as relatively less interesting.
The mini-series “Clipped” premieres on FX on June 4th.
