Shaunie Henderson is setting the record straight!
As we previously reported, in her recently released memoir, UNDEFEATED: Changing the Rules and Winning on My Own Terms, the reality star opens up about her past relationship with her ex-husband, Shaquille O’Neal. However, a viral excerpt from the book has caused a misunderstanding, leading Henderson to speak out to clear the air.
The excerpt in question reads, “Looking back, I don’t know that I was ever really in love with the man,” referring to her marriage to O’Neal in 2002. This statement caught the attention of many, including O’Neal himself, who posted a seemingly somber message on social media. He said, “I understand, I wouldn’t have been in love with me either.” He added, “wishing you all of the best… all love Shaq.”
RELATED:Shaq Responds After Ex-Wife Shaunie Henderson Reveals In New Book That She’s Not Sure If She Ever Loved Him: “I Understand”
RELATED:Congrats! Shaunie O’Neal and Pastor Keion Henderson Are Engaged: ‘This Love Is Forever’
Now, in response to all of the confusion, Henderson explains that the quote was completely taken out of context. She said to PEOPLE in an exclusive statement: My book is my truth, and when I was talking to my friend yesterday, I was like, developing an opinion and a comment from content with no context will show you a lot of people’s intelligence and unintelligence, right? There was no context to just that one quote that I said, and I think that sadly, people are taking my words out of context.” She went on to say:
“I’m not a word girl. I’m a character girl, and since I’ve left the marriage of Shaquille, my character has spoken for itself,” she continues.
This situation has reminded Henderson of how easily words can be misinterpreted, and how people often see what they want to see.”People don’t read, you know what I mean? Love, not…in love…They pick out the words they want. Again, context is everything,” she explains to the outlet.
Shaunie Henderson and Shaquille O’Neal have four children together, namely Shareef, Amirah, Shaqir, and Me’arah. Additionally, Henderson has a son named Myles from a previous relationship, while O’Neal has a daughter named Taahirah with his former girlfriend, Arnetta Yardbourgh. She has since remarried to Pastor Keion Henderson.
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