5 Reasons Why Samuel L. Jackson Jokes That Lamar Jackson Is His 'Bastard Son'

The long-running internet joke about NFL MVP Lamar Jackson and legendary actor Samuel L. Jackson being related has become one of the most persistent and entertaining memes in sports and pop culture today. While the two men share an iconic last name and a perceived physical resemblance, the truth is that they have absolutely no familial connection, a fact both have acknowledged in the past.

However, the narrative took an even more hilarious and public turn in late 2025 when Samuel L. Jackson himself playfully embraced the rumor, declaring on national television the true reason he cheers for the Baltimore Ravens. This article dives into the full story, from the viral side-by-side photos to their recent professional interactions, giving you the complete, up-to-date context of this unlikely celebrity connection.

Complete Profiles: Lamar Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson

To fully appreciate the humor and context of the viral relationship, here are the essential biographical details for both the NFL superstar and the Hollywood icon.

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Lamar Jackson: The NFL MVP

• Full Name: Lamar Demeatrice Jackson Jr.
• Born: January 7, 1997, in Pompano Beach, Florida, U.S.
• Occupation: Professional Football Quarterback.
• Current Team: Baltimore Ravens (NFL).
• College: University of Louisville (Heisman Trophy winner).
• Notable Achievements: NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP), one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in NFL history.

Samuel L. Jackson: The Hollywood Icon

• Full Name: Samuel Leroy Jackson.
• Born: December 21, 1948, in Washington, D.C., U.S.
• Occupation: Actor and Film Producer.
• Education: Graduated from Morehouse College in 1972.
• Notable Works: Pulp Fiction, The Avengers (as Nick Fury), Django Unchained, Jurassic Park, and numerous other films.
• Career Status: One of the highest-grossing actors of all time.

The Viral Meme and Uncanny Resemblance

The entire phenomenon began years ago on the internet, fueled by side-by-side images and a simple observation: the two men share an "uncanny resemblance." The visual comparisons, combined with the shared, famous last name, were enough to spark a widespread, humorous theory that the two must be related, perhaps father and son.

The meme gained significant traction during Lamar Jackson's college career at Louisville and continued to explode once he became a breakout star for the Baltimore Ravens. Fans joked that the actor and the football player looked too similar for the connection to be a mere coincidence.

Despite the definitive truth—that there is no familial link—the online discussion persisted, creating a perfect storm of curiosity and comedy. The persistence of the joke eventually led to Samuel L. Jackson being asked about it directly during public appearances.

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Samuel L. Jackson’s Hilarious 'Bastard Son' Claim

The rumor officially crossed over from internet joke to pop culture canon when Samuel L. Jackson commented on it. During an appearance on the late-night show Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the actor was asked about the resemblance and his favorite NFL team.

Jackson, a known Atlanta Falcons fan, revealed that he cheers "most for the Baltimore Ravens" because of Lamar Jackson.

The actor then delivered the line that cemented the meme into history: "Because Lamar Jackson’s my bastard son," he quipped. "That’s what everybody thinks, so I roll with that." This playful acceptance instantly went viral, giving the meme the celebrity endorsement it needed to thrive.

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The joke provides a perfect explanation for his support of the Ravens, allowing him to maintain his primary loyalty to the Falcons while still showing love for the electrifying Ravens quarterback. The actor's willingness to lean into the humorous narrative has charmed fans of both him and the NFL star.

The Professional Connection: A Voiceover Role

The story doesn't end with a joke. The playful public connection actually paved the way for a potential professional collaboration, demonstrating the power of social media buzz.

Lamar Jackson, exploring interests outside of football, revealed in a media appearance that he is working on a children's cartoon project and is seeking a voiceover role.

Crucially, Jackson disclosed that he had already reached out to Samuel L. Jackson to ask the prolific voice actor to be part of the project. This move shows that the Ravens QB is not only aware of the running joke but is comfortable enough with the Hollywood icon to approach him for a serious business venture.

While details on the cartoon project and Samuel L. Jackson's involvement remain sparse, the fact that the two have communicated about a professional collaboration is the freshest and most unique development in their shared story. It transforms a simple internet meme into a genuine, if humorously initiated, connection between two major figures in American entertainment and sports.