Jason Kelce found himself in a heated confrontation with a fan following a taping of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Thursday night. The incident unfolded outside the Hollywood studio, where a group of autograph seekers had gathered, hoping to catch the former NFL star.
One individual grew visibly agitated when Kelce declined to stop for autographs. The man launched into a tirade, accusing Kelce of acting superior and berating him for his “attitude.”
Among the outbursts, the man shouted, “You’re not special!” and bizarrely referenced “death in these streets two blocks away” while continuing to berate the former Eagles star.
Kelce attempted to explain his reasoning, saying he avoids signing autographs for people who track his whereabouts.
However, his explanation did little to appease the irate fan, who escalated his threats and insults, challenging the Super Bowl champion directly.
The fan’s apology
Rather than escalate the confrontation, Kelce chose a diplomatic approach. He stepped out of his vehicle, signed autographs for onlookers and even shook hands with the man who had insulted him.
As Kelce calmly signed items, the tone shifted. The man, visibly regretful, admitted he was embarrassed by his behavior and apologized, asking that the video of the incident not be shared.
“I feel you and I appreciate you,” Kelce said.
This wasn’t Kelce‘s first public confrontation in recent weeks. Earlier in the month, he made headlines for slapping a phone out of a fan’s hand at Penn State after the individual used a slur about his brother, Travis. Kelce later expressed regret over that incident, apologizing during a broadcast appearance.