BlacKkKlansman hits theaters this weekend, and as a part of the promo trail, the real detective behind the film, Ron Stallworth (portrayed in the movie by John David Washington), and director Spike Lee appeared on NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt. 

In the interview, Stallworth talked about a random, surprise phone call he’s had with David Duke about the film, his portrayal and Spike Lee.

“He wanted to talk about the fact that he’s concerned about how he’s going to be portrayed in this film. He’s only seen the trailer, and in the trailer, it makes him off to be a buffoonish cartoonish idiot.”

When Holt asked if that description was fair, the retired officer said, “In some areas, yeah. Spike made him look kind of stupid, but he was stupid in how this whole thing transpired 40 years ago. He said I’ve always respected Spike Lee. Which surprised the heck out of me.”

Lee laughed and responded, “That’s a compliment I don’t need.”