In a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Daymond John shared stories from his early days building FUBU, his experiences with cultural icons, and his continued commitment to health and longevity as he enters the 17th season of Shark Tank. The full segment can be viewed on ABC.
During the interview, Daymond John discussed the origins of his fashion empire, explaining how FUBU was built from a basement operation into a cultural movement. He described mortgaging his home, closing the business multiple times, and walking into rap video sets to get FUBU shirts worn by artists—often retrieving the same shirt after filming to reuse it. Daymond John noted that many believed FUBU was a massive clothing company long before it became one, even while he was still waiting tables at Red Lobster.
Daymond John also recounted a memorable moment in the brand’s history: Michael Jackson being photographed wearing FUBU—one of the only times the artist was ever seen in a branded clothing line. He shared the story of meeting Jackson in a studio around the year 2000, describing the singer’s creative process, his energy-boosting Reese’s Pieces habit, and how Jackson would anonymously roll through Harlem in a wheelchair with a transistor radio to gauge public reaction to new music.
Reflecting on his time on Shark Tank, Daymond John confirmed that his most successful investment remains Bombas, calling it the number one product across all 54 global editions of the show. He emphasized that what drew him to the company was not the product alone, but the founders’ mission—donating a pair of socks to the homeless community for every pair sold.
Daymond John also shared his growing focus on biohacking and longevity. After a cancer diagnosis in 2017, he has embraced fasting, lifestyle changes, and wellness technologies. “I want to live to 120,” he said, explaining how weekly 40-hour fasts and red-light therapy have become part of his routine. Despite his disciplined regimen, he joked about his love of carbs, sugar, and buffet chains—reinforcing his belief that balance and consistency matter more than perfection.
As Shark Tank continues into its 17th season, Daymond John remains committed to health, innovation, and empowering entrepreneurs. The full ABC interview can be viewed here.
