Puka Nacua Issues Apology After Controversial Livestream Dance, Faces Backlash Amid Rising Tensions
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua found himself at the center of controversy this week after performing a dance on a livestream that has since been widely criticized as antisemitic. The incident, which took place during a live broadcast with popular internet personalities Adin Ross and N3on, has sparked significant backlash, prompting an apology from Nacua and a statement from the NFL.
Nacua addressed the situation on Thursday, expressing remorse for his actions and clarifying that he was unaware of the dance’s offensive origins at the time.
"When I appeared the other day on a social media livestream, it was suggested to me to perform a specific movement as part of my next touchdown celebration," Nacua said. "At the time, I had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people. I deeply apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions as I do not stand for any form of racism, bigotry or hate of another group of people."
The NFL responded swiftly, issuing a firm statement condemning all forms of discrimination and reiterating its stance against antisemitism.
"The NFL strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and derogatory behavior directed towards any group or individual. The continuing rise of antisemitism must be addressed across the world, and the NFL will continue to stand with our partners in this fight. Hatred has no place in our sport or society."
The controversy stems from a Tuesday livestream in which Ross told Nacua he had a “special dance” for him to use after his next touchdown. Nacua mimicked the move on camera, unaware of its connotations. The timing of the clip’s circulation added fuel to the fire-it surfaced just days after a deadly attack targeting the Jewish community in Australia, where 15 people were killed on the first day of Hanukkah.
The backlash has been swift and vocal. Among the critics was U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), who didn’t mince words in condemning Nacua’s actions.
"The Los Angeles Jewish community is on edge after the Bondi Beach massacre. And what does this [Nacua] do?
He promises an antisemitic touchdown dance for his Thursday night game. He should apologize or be dropped," Swalwell wrote.
Nacua’s apology comes as he continues to have a standout rookie season. He currently ranks second in the NFL in both receptions (102) and receiving yards (1,367), quickly becoming a key weapon in the Rams’ offense. But the livestream didn’t just stir controversy for the dance-it also featured Nacua taking aim at NFL officiating, offering a candid, if controversial, perspective on how referees handle the spotlight.
"The refs are the worst," Nacua said. "You don't think [a ref] is texting his friends in the group chat, like, 'Yo, you guys just saw me on Sunday Night Football'?
That wasn't PI, but I called it.' ... These guys are human beings, too."
It’s a rare moment of unfiltered honesty from a rising star-and one that’s sure to catch the attention of the league office. While players often express frustration with officiating, Nacua’s comments suggest a belief that some officials may be motivated by attention or visibility, a serious charge in a league where integrity and fairness are paramount.
As if the spotlight wasn’t already intense enough, Nacua’s family has also been in the headlines. His brother, Samson Nacua, was arrested Saturday for allegedly stealing an SUV belonging to Los Angeles Lakers forward Adou Thiero. The incident adds another layer of complexity to what’s already been a turbulent week for the Nacua family.
The Rams are set to face the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday Night Football, and all eyes will be on Nacua-not just for what he does on the field, but for how he responds to the scrutiny off it. As the NFL continues to grapple with issues of social responsibility and player conduct, this moment serves as a reminder of the powerful platform athletes hold-and the importance of using it with care.