Shaquille O’Neal Expanding “Big Chicken” to Carnival Cruises

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Hall of Fame basketball player Shaquille O’Neal is expanding his “Big Chicken” restaurant to Carnival cruise ships.

O’Neal, who serves as Carnival’s “Chief Fun Officer,” is launching the first seagoing version of his :as Vegas-based “Big Chicken” eatery to the Carnival Radiance ship in 2020.

That will come after a $200 million refurbishment of the ship.

“As Chief Fun Officer, I want to bring even more fun to every aspect of a Carnival cruise, including what guests eat,” O’Neal said. “Big Chicken has been a dream of mine and now that our land-based restaurant is open, it’s only natural to bring it to sea, as well. I’m really excited that Carnival Radiance guests will be able to enjoy my own delicious creations alongside all the other great food offerings on board.”

Big Chicken opened in Las Vegas in October.

”Shaq has brought so much to our brand as Chief Fun Officer and we are always looking for ways to expand on this wonderful relationship and provide our guests with new ways to Choose Fun,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Knowing his passion for food and fun, we’re thrilled to work with Shaq to bring the first Big Chicken at sea aboard the totally transformed Carnival Radiance.”

Big Chciken has a menu of fried chicken sandwiches and fries; the Carnival version will include breakfast with dishes like chicken and egg biscuits.