Shaquille O’Neal New Owner of Iconic Krispy Kreme Location in Atlanta

ATLANTA, GA — Shaquille O’Neal is the new owner of one of downtown Atlanta's most recognizable doughnut shops in a deal with Krispy Kreme that also makes the basketball Hall-of-Famer the brand's "global spokesperson."

Krispy Kreme locations are known for a glowing sign in the window pitching fresh, hot glazed doughnuts. O'Neal was known for being a towering presence on the court during his 19-year career and has proven to be a charming entertainer off the court in the years since his retirement.

He is also a lifelong Krispy Kreme fan. The company announced Monday that he will be assuming ownership of the historic Krispy Kreme shop on Ponce de Leon Avenue.

“Krispy Kreme prides itself on spreading joy and supporting local communities, and that’s a cause that I am thrilled to be a part of,” O’Neal said in a statement. “Our goal is to help people find their happy place, and what better way than with a box of delicious Krispy Kreme doughnuts.”

“In addition to Shaquille’s status as a sports and entertainment icon and businessman, he is known for spreading joy, which aligns with our positioning and mission,” said Tony Thompson, president and CEO of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts. “We are confident this partnership will have a big impact for us in Atlanta and around the world.”

The company also announced a new Halloween promotion: Krispy Kreme fans who tag their Halloween social media posts with #ShaqOrTreat between Oct. 28 and 31 will be eligible to win Shaq-autographed prizes and other Krispy Kreme treats.

O'Neal has shown his love for the doughnuts many times over the years in social media posts and on YouTube.

Images via Google Earth, U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Chad Chisholm