Ed Helms Stunned by Chicago’s Pickleball Obsession: Actor Ed Helms visited Chicago last week while promoting his new book, SNAFU: The Definitive Guide to History’s Greatest Screwups. During his stay downtown, he was surprised to see so many pickleball courts and asked his Instagram followers to explain the city’s obsession with the sport.
The actor, known for roles in The Office and The Hangover, has never played pickleball before. But after seeing so many courts in such busy, valuable areas of the city, he took to social media to find out what makes the sport so popular in Chicago.
A Surprised Visitor
In a video shared with his 1.3 million followers, Ed Helms asked several questions.
“I was just out walking around, I’m right downtown, so many people out, and so much just good vibes in Chicago. I just have one question: What’s up with the pickleball? Like, what the hell? There’s like 50 pickleball courts in the middle of downtown, which is pretty prime real estate.” – (Helms)
“I get it, people like pickleball, but really? I mean, like, really? What am I missing? Tell me what I don’t understand about pickleball? I get it, people are passionate, but I’ve never played, so tell me what’s up. What is the deal? Also, Chicago, why are you like super crazy about pickleball? And then, last question, why is it called pickleball?” – (Helms)
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Fans Respond Quickly
His video sparked a lot of replies. Fans flooded the comments with answers, sharing facts about the game’s growing popularity, why it’s so fun, and even the story behind the name “pickleball.”
Ed Helms is the latest celebrity to take an interest in the sport. Although he hasn’t tried it yet, many expect that once he does, he’ll be hooked like millions of other players across the country.
A Sport Gaining Attention
Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America. Courts are popping up everywhere—especially in cities like Chicago, where people of all ages are getting involved.
Ed Helms noticing the trend adds even more spotlight to the sport’s rise. With more public figures taking notice, pickleball’s popularity is likely to keep growing. Fans may soon see Ed Helms on the court himself.
News in Brief: Ed Helms Stunned by Chicago’s Pickleball Obsession
Actor Ed Helms asked his Instagram followers why Chicago is full of pickleball courts. During his book tour stop downtown, he posted a video with questions about the sport’s rise. Fans responded with answers and support. Helms hasn’t played yet, but his curiosity highlights pickleball’s growing national fame.
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