FACT CHECK: Did Michael Jordan Reject An Offer From Disney?

January 15th, 2025
Former professional US basketball player Michael Jordan delivers a press conference at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris on June 12, 2015 to present Palais 23, an event at the Palais de Tokyo from June 12 to 14 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Jordan Brand. AFP PHOTO / PATRICK KOVARIK (Photo credit should read PATRICK KOVARIK/AFP via Getty Images)

A post shared on social media purports that NBA star Michael Jordan rejected a $100 million movie offer from Disney due to their political agenda.

 

Verdict: False

The claim stems from a satire site.

Fact Check:

Disney has been sued by an animator for allegedly using elements of his screenplay for “Moana 2” without his consent, The Independent reported. Buck Woodall filed a $10 billion lawsuit in California in federal court that claims the film lifted story points from a screenplay he wrote, according to the outlet.

A post shared on Facebook alleges that Jordan rejected an offer to work with Disney because of the political agenda promoted in their content. The post shared an image of Jordan and one of Mickey Mouse Ears with rainbow colors.

The caption reads, “Michael Jordan Rejects $100 Million Movie Offer from Disney Over ‘Woke’ Agenda.”

The claim is inaccurate. The claim stems from a satirical news outlet called Esspots.com. The article offers no sources or evidence that Jordan rejected a deal for political differences with Disney

The website features a parody disclaimer that reads, “Our team of writers and editors is dedicated to bringing you the latest and greatest in fake news and absurdity, all with a healthy dose of humor and satire. (RELATED: New Enron Home Electricity Product is Parody)

The claim was later shared by social media users without the satire disclaimer.

Disney has received backlash for some of the political and culture stances they made over the last few years, the New York Post reported. The company has been criticized for promoting pro-transgender agenda in their content

This is not the first time misinformation has circulated online. Check Your Fact recently debunked a claim an image showed Luigi Mangione’s mugshot.

Joseph Casieri

Fact Check Reporter