Kirk Franklin Has Not Eaten Lemon Pepper Wings in 25 Years

Kirk Franklin has gone approximately 25 years without eating a lemon pepper chicken wing. The gospel singer disclosed this dietary gap during a recent conversation with Kandi Burruss on the Rickey Smiley Morning Show.

Franklin stated that he has avoided fried foods, fast food, soul food, and soda for roughly 25 years. He told Burruss that he has never tried the specific Atlanta staple. "I don’t think I’ve ever had a lemon pepper chicken wing," Franklin said. The admission surprised Burruss, who noted that the dish is a major part of the city’s food culture.

The singer defended his choices against potential criticism from his community. He clarified that his dietary restrictions do not diminish his connection to his heritage. "Don’t take my black card, I need my black card because I love being black," he told Burruss.

Franklin explained that he allows himself rare exceptions to his strict routine. He identified hamburgers and fries as his preferred cheat meal. He estimated that he indulges in these items only twice a year. Burruss pointed out that fries are technically fried food, highlighting the strictness of his usual habits.

Franklin did not specify when or why he began avoiding these food groups. He maintained his current eating pattern for about a quarter of a century. The conversation took place on the Rickey Smiley Morning Show, where Burruss reacted to the length of time Franklin has spent without the popular dish.