Chris Brown has hailed Kyrie Irving as a “real hero.”
The polarizing singer-songwriter took to Instagram on Wednesday to express his support for Irving’s anti-vaccine position.
“The real hero! I stand with my brother,” he wrote on a photo of the Brooklyn Nets star. “Whoever don’t like it … go live your damn life. It’s his choice and a damn good one. Always in my brother’s corner.”
Irving has faced mounting criticism in recent weeks over his criticism of COVID-19 vaccine mandates being implemented across the country. The 29-year-old athlete has chosen to remain unvaccinated and has been quite vocal about his opposition to vaccine requirements. He opened up about his stance during an Instagram Live broadcast last week, arguing inoculations are a matter of personal choice.
“I’m standing with all those that believe what is right. Everybody is entitled to do what they feel is what’s best for themselves,” he said. “Seeing the way this is dividing our world up, it’s sad to see. People are losing jobs to mandates… If you choose to get the vaccine, I support you. Do what’s best for you. I continue to pray for all those out there who have lost people to the pandemic to COVID.”
Under New York’s vaccine mandate, Irving is prohibited from playing in home games until he provides proof of his vaccination. The Nets subsequently declared the seven-time All-Star “inactive”; however, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver insisted Irving’s issue was not with the league, but rather NYC officials.
“This is between Irving and New York City right now,” Silver said, as reported by ESPN. “This is not a league issue… but I think it would have been best for everyone if every player were vaccinated. I hope that Kyrie ultimately decides to get vaccinated.”
Brown’s take on Irving’s decision has been met with mixed reactions on social media. Some Twitter users applauded Brown for expressing his support, while others slammed him for co-signing what many believe to be an irresponsible and dangerous choice. You can read some of the reactions below.
