When professional football players retire from the game, their passion for the limelight doesn’t necessarily fade away. Many of these iconic athletes have found a new home on the television screen, leveraging their fame and charisma to captivate audiences beyond the gridiron. From commercials to sitcoms and dramas, these NFL stars have taken diverse paths to make their mark in show business, showcasing their talents and building enduring careers even after retiring from the sport that catapulted them to stardom.
Some of these former players have seamlessly transitioned from the football field to the silver screen, becoming sought-after actors and carving their niche in the industry. While some found success playing henchmen and action heroes in action films, others embraced softer roles, portraying relatable father figures and lovable characters on beloved shows like Webster and Little House on the Prairie. Alex Karras and Merlin Olsen are prime examples of football stars who charmed audiences with their endearing on-screen personas. Here are 10 former NFL stars who seamlessly transitioned to television stardom:
- Alex Karras – Renowned for his role as the endearing and gentle father figure, George Papadopoulos, in the heartwarming sitcom “Webster.” Karras’ portrayal of the adoptive father to Emmanuel Lewis’ title character captured the hearts of viewers and solidified his status as a talented actor beyond the football field.
- Merlin Olsen – Captivated audiences with his endearing and soft-hearted character, Jonathan Garvey, in the beloved series “Little House on the Prairie.” Olsen’s warm and compassionate portrayal of the Garvey family patriarch left a lasting impact on fans, earning him admiration as a skilled actor.
- O.J. Simpson – Achieved fame with guest roles in various sitcoms and dramas, displaying versatility as an actor beyond his renowned football career. Simpson’s appearances in shows like “The Naked Gun” and “Roots” showcased his acting abilities and contributed to his rise as a recognizable television personality.
- Fred Dryer – Made a mark as an action hero and lead actor in the crime drama series “Hunter.” As the tough and determined Detective Sergeant Rick Hunter, Dryer demonstrated his commanding presence and action prowess, becoming a prominent figure in the world of crime-solving television dramas.
- Michael Strahan – Charmed audiences with his charisma as a co-host on “Live! with Kelly and Michael” and “Good Morning America.” Strahan’s engaging personality and natural rapport with his co-hosts endeared him to viewers, making him a beloved and respected television personality.
- Terry Bradshaw – Displayed his comedic talents in shows like “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and reality series “The Bradshaw Bunch.” Bradshaw’s infectious sense of humor and genuine charm made him a favorite guest on talk shows and a successful reality TV star.
- Jim Brown – Established himself as a prominent actor in action films like “The Dirty Dozen” and “100 Rifles.” Brown’s powerful screen presence and athleticism from his football days seamlessly translated into the action genre, cementing his status as a credible actor.
- Howie Long – Found success in various action films and TV appearances, building a reputation as an action star. Long’s imposing physique and rugged demeanor lent authenticity to his roles, making him a sought-after talent in Hollywood.
- Bubba Smith – Made a name in comedies like the “Police Academy” film series, where he portrayed the gentle giant, Moses Hightower. Smith’s comedic timing and physicality made him a standout performer in the beloved comedy franchise.
- Brian Bosworth – Pursued a career in action films and made-for-TV movies, capitalizing on his tough-guy image. Bosworth’s transition from the football field to the silver screen showcased his ability to handle intense and action-packed roles.
The journey from the NFL to the world of entertainment has been a fruitful one for these athletes, who continue to thrive in their television careers, maintaining a strong presence in the public eye. Their popularity and relatability have led to fame equal to or even greater than what they achieved during their time as quarterbacks, defensive linemen, or star receivers. Some of these talented individuals have sustained their television careers well into the 21st century, showcasing their enduring appeal and capturing the hearts of audiences across generations.
From commanding the football field to captivating the small screen, these former NFL stars have proven that show business offers an exciting and rewarding avenue for extending their careers and continuing to shine in the spotlight. Their journey from sports to television stardom serves as a testament to their versatility and talent, leaving a lasting legacy in both the worlds of sports and entertainment. Today, these remarkable individuals remain a cherished presence on the boob tube, delighting audiences with their remarkable performances and leaving an indelible mark on television history.
