Michael Rapaport Faces Backlash Defending Hulk Hogan's Controversial Legacy

Actor and comedian Michael Rapaport has faced significant backlash for defending wrestling legend Hulk Hogan following Hogan's death in July 2025. Rapaport dismissed criticisms of Hogan's controversial past, including a racist rant from 2007 in which Hogan used racial slurs against Black people, and endorsed Donald Trump, asserting that Hogan should not be disrespected. Rapaport emphasized Hogan's cultural impact and wrestling legacy, describing him as an original character who brought joy to millions, and urged fans to separate Hogan's professional achievements from his personal controversies. However, many social media users and commentators criticized Rapaport for downplaying the severity of Hogan's racist remarks, accusing him of selective outrage and lacking empathy, especially given Rapaport's history of addressing racism in other contexts. The controversy has reignited debates about celebrity forgiveness and accountability, with some defending Hogan’s legacy and others refusing to overlook his offensive past. Hogan had apologized for his remarks years earlier, but his reputation suffered after WWE severed ties with him following the 2015 scandal.