A clip from FX’s new series American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez has been making waves on social media, particularly for its humorous portrayal of NFL legend Rob Gronkowski. The buzz around the scene centers on actor Laith Wallschleger’s spot-on yet exaggerated impression of Gronkowski.
However, in a fun twist, Gronkowski recently revealed during an interview on Up & Adams with Kay Adams that Wallschleger isn’t just any actor — he’s actually a long-time friend of Gronk’s.
“It was definitely over the top,” Gronkowski said, referring to the portrayal of himself in the series. “You want to know a fun fact about that clip? That is my good friend Laith who is playing me there. I’ve known him for about 14 years, and he definitely went over the top. I feel like it just fit the show perfectly, though. Especially with all the other characters like Coach (Bill) Belichick and seeing Robert Kraft in the show as well. Like I said, over the top, a little exaggerated for sure, but it played the part in how this show was produced.”
Wallschleger, who has actually stood in for Gronkowski before, is no stranger to stepping into the shoes of the four-time Super Bowl champion. Gronkowski shared that Wallschleger previously doubled for him in a FanDuel commercial, specifically the Kick of Destiny ad that aired during the Super Bowl.
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While Gronkowski appreciated the performance, he couldn’t help but point out a few lighthearted differences between himself and his friend. “He’s shorter than me, though, and he’s not as jacked as me, either,” Gronk joked. “But he’s alright.”
Despite those differences, the portrayal struck a chord with fans, blending humor and exaggeration, which seemed to align well with the tone of the show.
Gronkowski, known for his larger-than-life personality on and off the field, seemed to embrace the caricature, acknowledging that while exaggerated, it captured the essence of his character within the story’s context.
American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez delves into the life and legacy of former NFL star Aaron Hernandez, but the inclusion of notable figures like Gronkowski, Belichick, and Kraft adds another layer of intrigue for sports fans.
Gronkowski’s cameo in the show, through his friend Wallschleger, provided a humorous and memorable moment that highlighted the lighter side of the serious story.
Wallschleger’s portrayal, with its over-the-top flair, was not just a fun tribute to Gronk but also a reflection of the close bond the two share.
And while Gronk may not have given his friend a perfect score for physical accuracy, he clearly enjoyed the performance — and fans across social media seem to agree.
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