07 May 2024 , 03:00
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A tense moment between Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft caught the attention of fans in attendance and on social media during the roast of Tom Brady on Sunday.
The owner of the New England Patriots was warmly welcomed by the audience when introduced as one of the so-called 'roasters'. After his performance, event host Kevin Hart praised him for coming up with most of his own material, only assisted slightly by other comedians.
It was at this point Hart noted the distance between Kraft and ex-Patriots coach Bill Belichick, especially considering their shared history of victory. The actor and comedian then instigated that pair share a shot together on the main stage.
At first, Belichick was comfortable staying seated next to Rob Gronkowski, choosing to raise his glass to Kraft. But as Kraft approached the rostrum, Belichick felt compelled to rise too. Gronkowski poured Belichick a drink, prompting Hart to remark: "This is a big moment, Bill."
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Following a resisting smirk, amid raucous applause from the audience, Belichick gradually took his steps towards Kraft and Hart who were waiting for him on stage.
Upon reaching the podium, Belichick gave Kraft's glass a tentative tap and stood with a look of discomfort, before Kraft addressed the attendees. "I want to say, this is the greatest coach in the history of the game that did what no one else has done," Kraft proclaimed, as applause thundered through the venue. "And having Tom Brady and him was the greatest honor the good Lord gave me, so cheers."
While Kraft confidently downed his drink, Belichick was more measured, slowly raising his glass towards Brady before taking a sip. In a telling moment after the toast, Brady warmly embraced Kraft while Belichick walked past them back to his seat, without engaging with Kraft whatsoever. This comes after Belichick had previously made a pointed joke at Kraft's expense during his own speech.
Bill Belichick's expression says it all after being forced to share a drink with Robert Kraft (X)"Seriously, I'm so honored to be here for the roast of Tom Brady on Netflix, it's not to be confused with the roast of Bill Belichick on the 10-part Apple TV series," quipped Belichick, eliciting laughter from the audience.
Belichick's remark was a nod to "The Dynasty," a documentary series examining the Patriots' era of success under Belichick, Brady, and Kraft, which was criticized for its unflattering portrayal of Belichick. The depiction was so controversial that several players who were coached by Belichick have publicly questioned the series' accuracy.
While Hart's decision to bring both men on stage was intended to resolve any tension, Belichick's behaviour suggested he might not share Kraft's feelings about their relationship. It's unclear whether the two will comment on this awkward moment from Brady's roast, which was otherwise filled with laughter and jokes.