Faizon Love Calls on Adidas to Bring Back Rod Laver Shoe
Big Worms witty birthday message sparks demand for a comeback of the cult classic sneaker
Image: Instagram
Faizon Love, the veteran actor and comedian known for his scene-stealing turn as Big Worm in the 1995 cult classic Friday, marked his 57th birthday earlier this week—and instead of cake and candles, he sent out a playful plea to Adidas. In a tongue-in-cheek Instagram post, Love challenged the sportswear giant to bring back his favorite court-to-street sneaker, the Rod Laver.
He captioned the post:
“Dear Adidas, I recently turned 57, and a good friend of mine Mark Overton asked my lady Claudia, ‘What do I really want for my birthday?’ She tried to buy me some Jordans—boring, typical, robot culture… I don the Jordans sometimes; they’re just not me… I ranted and moaned like my 6-year-old daughter: ‘Why can’t I have some Rod Laver’s for my birthday?’ Mark said they stopped making them. Why, why, why… can’t I find any Rod Laver, my favorite Adidas shoe… so now I’m asking you Adidas: why can’t Faizon Love aka Big Worm have his favorite shoe for his 57 birthday?”
The Instagram snapshot shows Love flashing a grin as he makes his public appeal to the brand.
Rod Laver: A Tennis Icon In Sneaker Form
Originally introduced by Adidas in 1978, the Rod Laver sneaker honors Australian tennis legend Rod Laver, the only player to achieve the Grand Slam twice. With its clean leather upper, classic rubber cupsole and understated three stripes, it became a staple both on court and on the street. Although Adidas reissued updated versions in the mid-2010s, the retro OG model has been largely absent from shelves in recent years. Underlying its enduring appeal is the way the shoe bridged performance and streetwear; by the early 2000s it had developed a cult following among DJs, skateboarders and hip-hop artists. Collectors today cite it as a must-have on any retro wishlist.
Why The Rod Laver?
For Love, the Rod Laver goes beyond nostalgia—it’s his everyday go-to. In his birthday post, he playfully dismissed Nike’s Jordan line as “robot culture,” arguing that nothing matches the timeless appeal of his Adidas favorite. His remark that the shoe “stopped making” highlights a common frustration among sneaker fans whenever an iconic style is shelved.
Sneaker Culture Responds
Within hours, enthusiasts and collectors chimed in on social media using #BringBackRodLaver. One fan shared a photo of their original 1982 white-and-navy pair stored away in the closet; another tagged Adidas directly, asking if a limited-edition run might be possible. The conversation showcases the lasting impact of a design that transcends generations.
From Court To Street
While tennis-inspired shoes often stay on the sidelines of fashion, the Rod Laver has maintained a loyal following. Industry observers say its minimal look makes it a versatile choice for sneakerheads, blending seamlessly with everything from tailored trousers to casual denim. Sneaker resellers report that OG Rod Lavers in good condition can fetch upwards of $200 on secondary markets, underscoring the design’s collectability.
A Direct Ask To Adidas
With over 100,000 followers engaging with the post, Love’s birthday message doubles as a heartfelt ask. Adidas has not yet issued an official response to his plea. Fans are watching closely—an affirmative “yes” could lead to one of the brand’s most high-profile re-releases in recent memory, reuniting retro purists and new fans alike.
Life And Laughs Beyond Sneakers
Sneakers may be the focus right now, but Love’s Instagram feed also reflects his busy performance calendar. Earlier this month, he shared backstage photos from the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival (#LACF2025) in Johannesburg, posting candid shots from a fan meet-and-greet.
On-screen And Onstage
Born in Santiago de Cuba and raised in New Jersey, Faizon Love launched his career in the mid-1990s alongside comedians like Ice Cube. After Friday (1995) brought him acclaim, he went on to roles in Elf (2003), The Replacements (2000) and Couples Retreat (2009). His magnetic presence and sharp comic timing have cemented him as a versatile performer across film, television and live comedy.
What’s Next For ‘big Worm’?
As fans rally behind his call for a Rod Laver revival, Love continues to headline clubs and tour schedules. Whether or not Adidas decides to answer his birthday wish, the campaign has shone a spotlight on the power of nostalgia, social media and a classic sneaker that refuses to fade away.
No matter how this chapter ends, Faizon Love’s playful message reminds us all that the right pair of shoes can spark memories—and maybe even spark a comeback.
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