NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal recently made waves in Dyker Heights as he was spotted filming scenes for the third season of the popular mob drama “Gravesend.” The neighborhood was abuzz with excitement as O’Neal, known for his larger-than-life personality, graced the basketball courts to shoot scenes for the hit Amazon Prime series.
O’Neal’s presence drew a crowd of eager fans, with local kids clamoring for a chance to meet the 7’1″ superstar. Some lucky youngsters even scored roles as extras in the show, adding to the excitement surrounding the filming in Dyker Heights.
“Gravesend,” written, directed, and starring William DeMeo, is set in the historic South Brooklyn neighborhood during the 1980s, following the life of its main character, Benny Zerletta, a self-proclaimed mafia “soldier.” The show has gained a dedicated following since its release during the pandemic in 2020, becoming a standout in Hollywood despite its modest budget and smaller team.
DeMeo, a native of Gravesend, shared his excitement about working with O’Neal, revealing that the sports legend’s love for mob dramas like “Goodfellas,” “A Bronx Tale,” and “The Godfather” made him a perfect fit for the show. O’Neal’s character, Mustafa, aligns with Benny Z, played by DeMeo, as they navigate the world of organized crime together.
The upcoming season of “Gravesend” promises to feature a star-studded cast, including icons like Talia Shire, Fran Drescher, Joseph D’Onofrio, Chazz Palminteri, Vincent Pastore, Andrew “Dice” Clay, and Mario Cantone, among others. Viewers can look forward to seeing these talented actors bring the world of South Brooklyn to life in a way that has captivated audiences since the show’s inception.
As filming for the third season continues, the DeMeo family remains grateful for the support of their growing fanbase and the opportunity to showcase a lesser-known part of Brooklyn in a major way. Despite the challenges of producing an independent show, the team behind “Gravesend” is determined to deliver quality content that resonates with viewers and keeps them coming back for more.
With each scene shot in Dyker Heights, the cast and crew are transported back to 1987, immersing themselves in the world of organized crime and intrigue that defines “Gravesend.” As the series continues to gain momentum, it’s clear that O’Neal’s involvement has only added to its appeal, drawing in new fans and generating even more excitement for what’s to come in the upcoming season.
Overall, the collaboration between O’Neal and DeMeo on “Gravesend” has proven to be a winning combination, blending the worlds of sports and entertainment in a way that captivates audiences and keeps them eagerly anticipating each new episode. As the series continues to evolve and expand its reach, it’s clear that O’Neal’s presence has left a lasting impact on the show and its dedicated fanbase.