Thu Jan 30 15:10:00 IST 2025: ## Cam Newton’s Podcast Interview Sparks Backlash
**Former NFL MVP Cam Newton faces criticism for a controversial podcast interview with Royce Reed, Dwight Howard’s ex-girlfriend.**
ATLANTA, GA – Cam Newton’s burgeoning media career has taken a hit following a recent podcast episode featuring explosive allegations against former NBA star Dwight Howard. The nearly two-and-a-half-hour interview with Reed, Howard’s ex-girlfriend and mother of his child, covered a wide range of topics, including Howard’s sexuality and accusations of physical and emotional abuse. The episode, titled “Funky Friday,” included a segment specifically titled “Is Dwight Howard Gay?”
While Reed claims she was previously silenced by a non-disclosure agreement, she detailed numerous allegations against Howard, mirroring sentiments expressed in previous social media posts and interviews. However, the podcast’s tone shifted between serious accusations of abuse and what many critics perceived as mocking and salacious commentary.
The interview has drawn significant backlash, with former NBA player J.R. Smith criticizing Newton on Instagram, calling the interview “hella corny” and questioning the ethics of using a Black woman to attack a Black man. Newton responded defensively, but didn’t engage in further debate.
The presentation of the podcast itself has also been criticized. The YouTube clips and segment titles are perceived as sensationalizing the serious allegations made by Reed. The contrast between Newton’s growing role on ESPN and the controversial content of his podcast has also generated discussion.
While Newton has shown a willingness to engage in provocative interviews, the incident highlights a potential conflict between his personal brand and his professional commitments at ESPN. The network has yet to publicly comment on the controversy.
First Piper 