So you may or may not be familiar with 19-year-old Bryce Harper, All-Star outfielder for the Washington Nationals. A few weeks ago, after being asked in Toronto if he’ll enjoy a victory beer (again, he’s 19, which is legal in Canada but not in US), he famously responded to the reporter, “That’s a clown question, bro.”
The video and the phrase quickly went viral. Harper went so far as to trademark the phrase, and his sponsor, Under Armour, has cashed in and used it to create maybe the most fantastic shirt I’ve seen this year. They sold out in less than 48 hours…cue my sad face.
The shirt is emblazoned with the phrase, “Don’t Be a Clown Bro” As much as it is a reference to Harper’s original answer, a forever quotable sports phrase and instant Internet punch line, I feel like it’s an effective way to approach everyday life. What does “Don’t Be a Clown Bro” really mean?
We’re all in this together…don’t try to make others look bad for comedic benefit.
You’re the best version of yourself. Stick to it.
Man laws and lady code. They’re actual things. Try to stick to those, too.
Don’t deceive.
Just be real.
Am I the only one gaining valuable insights from a 19-year-old?
[crickets] [one person says, "That's a clown question, Meg."]
FINE. Wisdom comes from unlikely places, OK?
PS I’m waiting for my homeboy and Bryce Harper’s bro (not ACTUAL bro, but friendly bro) Mike Trout to say something super sassy, hasn’t happened yet. My hopes are high for you, Mike. Don’t disappoint me.
You are NOT the only one gaining insight from a 19-year-old! I love this quote and I’ve been saying it in my head constantly.
I want that shirt.
YAIS. We’ll get them for each other for Christmas or birthdays or whenver Under Armour gets them in stock again.