Shaq to reign as Bacchus’ celebrity monarch 2025, embracing Louisiana roots and festivities

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He’s excited to celebrate with Louisiana, sharing his love for the state and how it helped shape the persona fans know as “Shaq.”

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NEW ORLEANS — Shaquille O’Neal, NBA legend, will reign over Bacchus for the 2025 Carnival season. Before the big Bacchus Rendezvous, he reflected on what the honor means to him, sharing the moment with family and his deep connection to Louisiana.

“It’s an honor,” he told WWL’s Meg Farris. “I’m learning much about the tradition and I’m just glad that they picked me,” Shaq said.

He said he’s excited to celebrate with the people of Louisiana. He emphasized his love for the state and noted that it played a key role in shaping the persona fans know as “Shaq.”

“People have always been very hospitable,” he told Farris.

The moment is especially meaningful for Shaq because his family has roots in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette. He said his family will be among the crowds at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

“Hail Bacchus!” Shaq cheered.

With limited-edition throws, Shaq said he’s eager to add to the excitement. The krewe will be tossing 250 different kinds of throws, more than $3 million worth, including many that can be used and reused year-round.

“This year Shaquille O’Neal will be throwing Shaq basketballs,” Bacchus Krewe member George Schiaffino said. “There will be a limited quantity of these coming off the king’s float. You’re going to have to catch from Shaq himself.”

More than 50 previous Bacchus monarchs have used the same throne to ride down St. Charles Avenue, but when this year’s Bacchus is 7-foot-1, 325 pounds, the krewe is making some adjustments.

“We’re going to lower the throne by approximately four feet, and then we’re bringing in a new throne. Barry Kern and his crew at Mardi Gras World have built a new throne that we’re going to use for Shaq this year,” Krewe Captain Clark Brennan said.

Bacchus is expected to step off Sunday, March 2 around 5:30 p.m. on the Uptown parade route.

Join WWL Live for full coverage starting at 10pm as the Bacchus Rendezvous brings Mardi Gras magic, music & revelry.