Crime | George Zimmerman Zimmerman Called Trayvon 'Term of Endearment': Pal Joe Oliver says he called Martin a goon, not a coon... By Kate Seamons Posted Mar 25, 2012 5:24 PM CDT Copied Zimmerman Called Trayvon 'Term of Endearment': Pal Joe Oliver defends his friend ... or tries to. (ABC News) George Zimmerman's friend went on Good Morning America today to defend him. But Joe Oliver's defense was a little, uhh, odd. After saying that Zimmerman is in hiding and doing "better" but initially "couldn't stop crying," he was asked a question about the racial epithet some say Zimmerman muttered while talking to the 911 operator. Oliver's explanation: Zimmerman didn't call Trayvon Martin a "coon." Oliver continues, "I spoke with my teenage daughter yesterday and the word in question, it's the difference between a C and a G, from what I understand. And 'goon' is apparently a term of endearment in the high schools these days." Furthermore, "I don't know of anyone younger than 40 who uses 'coon' as a racial epithet." Read These Next New Fox star, 23, misses first day after car troubles. Iran's supreme leader makes first public comments since ceasefire. Her blood isn't compatible with anyone else's. White House rolls with Trump's 'daddy' nickname. See 1 photo Report an error