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American Football

NFL Legend, Action Hero & Activist Jim Brown Dies at 87

Jim Brown, the legendary running back who went down in history as one of the greatest NFL players of all time, passed away at 87. According to a spokeswoman for Browns’ family, he died peacefully in his Los Angeles home. His wife Monique Brown confirmed his passing on social media by writing, “To the world, he was an activist, actor, and football star. To our family, he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Our hearts are broken.” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell sent condolences to Brown’s family and describes him as one of the most dominant players to ever step on any athletic field and a cultural figure who helped promote change. “During his nine-year NFL career, which coincided with the civil rights movement here at home, he became a forerunner and role model for athletes being involved in social initiatives outside their sport,” said Goodell in a statement. Browns’ career in NFL spanned just nine years, but that didn’t stop him from leaving a permanent mark on the sport. He spent the entirety of his career with the Cleveland Browns and led them to the Super Bowl title in 1964, in addition to being chosen as the NFL's Most Valuable Player three times. Brown made a shocking decision to retire from football in his prime to pursue a career as an actor. He went on to become one of Hollywood's first black action heroes during the 70s, in addition to being one of the most prominent athletes to engage in civil rights activism.