There has seemingly been no limit to those who have criticized HBO’s series Winning Time—which chronicles the rise of the “Showtime” Lakers dynasty of the 1980s—for taking artistic liberties in portraying its storylines and characters. Among the detractors? Basketball Hall of Famer and the logo himself, Jerry West.
In an interview with former Los Angeles Times sports editor Bill Dwyre, West lamented the portrayal of himself and his former teammates and coaches in the show, saying they series “made us all look like cartoon characters.” He also stated a willingness to take legal action against HBO if the network does not take corrective action.