The Sixers fan who hit Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook with the double bird salute during Wednesday’s game has come forward to apologize and reveal something personal about himself: He’s a part-time comedian.
Richard Harkaway, a urologist by day and chuckle producer by night, called his gesture towards Westbrook “inexcusable.” Philly.com got the details related to this imbroglio:
“As a part-time comedian I realize that my words and actions are sometimes inappropriate,” Harkaway said in a statement to Philly.com issued by a personal representative. “In this instance, after standing up to boo and being provoked by Russell Westbrook calling attention to my being overweight, my action in response was clearly inexcusable and I am embarrassed. I sincerely apologize to my fellow Sixers fans, the Sixers organization, my colleagues and patients, and to Mr. Westbrook for my behavior.”
Harkaway has “voluntary privileges” at Einstein but he is not an employee of the health system, hospital spokesman Damien Woods said.
When not at work, Harkaway moonlights as a comedian at a number of local clubs. He has a history of opening for Jackie “The Jokeman” Martling, including at the Rrazz Room at the Prince Theater in Center City, and has been known to joke about his weight.
Following this embarrassment, you can bet Harkaway is going to hear it from all his comic buddies down at the Rrazz Room. The Jokeman, Giggle Boy, Joey Snickers, and Rufus really know how to dish it out.