Ken Jeong Demanded Joel McHale to “Put Some Respect on His Name” in Live TV Rant

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Ken Jeong just called out longtime friend and sometimes co-star Joel McHale ... but fans will be surprised about the reason.

Earlier this month, The Masked Singer season 9 judge appeared on The Talk to discuss all things about the hit competition series. When the subject turned to the news of a Community reunion movie in the works at Peacock, the daytime TV talk show threw up a picture of Ken's character Ben Chang alongside Joel's character Jeff Winger. While most would say heartfelt comments about their cast mates, Ken decided to kid around about the status of their camaraderie.

"I told The Talk not to put a poster of Joel McHale during my segment," he joked in a clip he posted to Instagram on February 9. "He is ... I'm gonna say it right now, unpopular opinion. He used to be a good friend of mine, until I became a star!"

Ken continued: "And now ... He may be in the reunion movie, if I allow it! If I allow it! So Joel McHale, I'm looking at you on TV ... put some respect on my name! Sheclacky!"

When fans caught The Hangover comedian's rant circulating on social media, it didn't take long before they started sharing their thoughts. But many also quickly realized that his comments were meant for a moment of hilarity.

"Keep dreaming Winger, the Chang Dynasty shall rise once more!!!!" one person wrote on Instagram, referencing the hit NBC sitcom. "Absolutely hilarious 😂," another added. "I'm here for the @kenjeong & @joelmchale bromance," a different user replied.

So, does Ken actually have an undisclosed beef with Joel? As he later clarified, the two don't have any issues with one another. What's more, they continue to be close after Community ended in June 2015.

"Real talk: he's one of my best friends," he concluded. "I love him and I will allow eye contact on the set."

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