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Former Steelers star Ryan Clark found himself at the center of controversy after defending his Halloween costume on Thursday night. Clark, who appeared as Bill Belichick, the former New England Patriots coach, faced backlash on social media for what some labeled a “racist” depiction. The former NFL player donned a white-skinned mask and gray wig to portray Belichick, and despite having the legendary coach’s blessing, Clark faced a wave of criticism.
Clark, who co-hosts the CW’s “Inside The NFL” alongside Belichick, took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to explain his costume. He revealed that he spent three hours in makeup applying the prosthetic to achieve the look.
Clark emphasized that Belichick himself not only approved the costume but even contributed his own game-worn sweatshirt and whistle to complete the ensemble. Clark said he wanted to honor the coach’s love for Halloween and the energy Belichick brings to their interactions.
“I wanted to honor coach,” Clark explained. “Honor his love for Halloween, the energy he treats me with every day, and getting to wear the actual clothing he wore in becoming the greatest coach of all time! We had fun. I have zero regrets and would do it all again!” Clark noted that the costume was well received around the NFL Films set and loved by Belichick himself.
Despite this, Clark faced criticism from what he called the “white face mob.” Some critics argued that Clark’s use of a white mask was a double standard, pointing out that if a white person wore a similar costume involving a Black figure, it would be deemed offensive. On Thursday, Clark directly addressed these claims, arguing that his portrayal was not equivalent to blackface.
“Blackface was invented by lower-tier white people because it distanced them from their class, and then used to mock Black people by the film industry,” Clark wrote. “It was a part of oppression. Blackface is racist—from its inception, to its execution, to its intention. There is no equivalent, because there is no equivalent in the oppression.”
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Clark stood by his costume, reiterating that it was done with respect and in collaboration with Belichick himself. Notably, Belichick also participated in the Halloween fun, dressing up as Clark without using any makeup or mask—simply donning a two-tone suit to resemble his co-host.
Fellow panel members Chris Long and Chad Johnson also swapped roles, with each wearing the other’s jerseys to keep the festive spirit going.
While many fans were not pleased with Clark’s explanation, accusing him of hypocrisy and questioning the perceived double standard, others defended his actions. Supporters argued that intent matters, and Clark’s portrayal was done with admiration for Belichick, unlike the historical context of blackface.
One fan wrote, “Fair play. All about intent. No matter the word or action.” Another added, “Belichick gave you the nod of approval. Plus, it’s a mask for those who have an issue. Very different.”
Belichick, for his part, seemed to enjoy the Halloween festivities, as he and his girlfriend, Jordon Hudson, also took part in the holiday’s spirit—dressing up as a fisherman and mermaid, respectively.
Despite the backlash, Clark remains steadfast in his defense of his costume and his intentions, insisting it was a tribute to a coach he respects deeply.
