Interview: Laurence Fishburne’s take on his role as Doc Rivers in FX’s ‘Clipped’

Based on the hit ESPN 30 for 30 podcast, The Sterling Affairs, FX’s limited series Clipped dives into the scandal behind LA Clippers owner Donald Sterling’s racist remarks that made headlines a decade ago. The show chronicles the notorious NBA owner’s downfall, his relationship with famed coach Doc Rivers, the social media rise of Sterling’s personal assistant V. Stiviano, and the role of Shelly, Sterling’s wife and business partner of 60 years.

The six-episode series stars Laurence Fishburne as Doc Rivers, Ed O’Neill as Donald Sterling, Jacki Weaver as Shelly, and Cleopatra Coleman as V. Stiviano. Kelly AuCoin makes a standout appearance as Sterling’s right-hand Andy Roeser, J. Alphonse Nicholson stars as Chris Paul, Rich Sommers plays Clippers’ PR man Seth Burton, Corbin Bernsen plays Pierce O’Donnell, NBA great Elgin Baylor is played by Clifton Davis, and Harriet Sansom Harris stars as Justine.

Executive producer Gina Welch (Castle Rock, Under the Banner of Heaven) serves as creator and showrunner, along with Emmy®-winning producers Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson, Zanne Devine, Ramona Shelburne and Kevin Bray (Loot, Black-ish, Succession).

Awards Buzz spoke with Emmy winner Laurence Fishburne about portraying Doc Rivers. Known for playing a long list of iconic characters, the actor once again delivers an incredible performance, bringing this story (based on actual events) to life. Watch the video to see what he had to say.

FX’s Clipped premiered with two episodes on Tuesday June 4 exclusively on Hulu, with subsequent episodes releasing weekly.