Jack Nicholson is widely regarded as one of the greatest film actors of his generation, with iconic roles in The Shining, Chinatown and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.
But to LA sports fans, he was just as well known for having a regular courtside seat at Lakers games. Basketball fans could always count on the three-time-Oscar-winner being in his usual spot, especially during the most important games.
In recent years, Nicholson has receded from public life and hadn’t been seen at a Laker game in over a year — but that all changed this weekend as the actor made a rare public appearance, leaving fans stunned.
Nicholson, who last attended a Los Angeles Lakers game in October 2021, attended their matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies, game 6 in their first-round playoff series. He returned to his regular courtside seat with his son.
Fans gave the legend a sweet welcome back: after clips from The Shining and Batman played, Nicholson appeared on the jumbotron to huge applause.
Nicholson just turned 86, and has been retired from Hollywood films since 2010. He also makes very few public appearances these days, leading to many fans becoming concerned about his health.
Paparazzi photos taken outside his home in Beverly Hills gave a rare look at the actor last month: some outlets described him as looking “disheveled” and “unrecognizable,” but many fans defended him saying he looked good for his age.
Seeing him at the Lakers game, it’s clear he’s still going strong — a little older but still the same old Jack.
Before the game, Nicholson was greeted by NBA superstar LeBron James.
Perhaps it was thanks to their most famous superfan cheering them on, but the Lakers dominated the game, clinching the series.
Jack Nicholson has been a devoted Lakers fan for decades. According to AP, Nicholson first got season tickets back in 1970, and would even adjust his Hollywood shooting schedule so he could attend big games.
The actor has long been a staple of Lakers home games, appearing courtside with his signature sunglasses. After a long absence from the court, fans were no doubt thrilled to see Jack back again.