It’s with a heavy heart that I report football icon, Hollywood film hero, and social activist Jim Brown has passed away.
A spokesperson for the family said Jim, born James Nathaniel Brown, transitioned peacefully in his Los Angeles home on Thursday night with his wife, Monique Brown, by his side.
In an Instagram post, Monique wrote:
It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of my husband, Jim Brown.
He passed peacefully last night at our LA home.
To the world he was an activist, actor, and football star.
To our family, he was a loving and wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.
Our hearts are broken…
See Mrs. Brown’s original post below.
Born on February 17, 1936, in St. Simons, Georgia, Jim Brown became an icon in the world of professional football.
His career as a running back for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965 is unparalleled.
Jim set numerous records and earned countless accolades, including nine Pro Bowl selections and three NFL Most Valuable Player awards.
Jim revolutionized the game of football with his exceptional speed, strength, and agility.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell offered his condolences on behalf of the league.
Jim Brown was a gifted athlete — one of the most dominant players to ever step on any athletic field — but also 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.
After his retirement, Jim Brown headed to Hollywood and appeared in numerous movies including 100 Rifles, Mars Attacks!, Spike Lee’s He Got Game, Oliver Stone’s Any Given Sunday, and the classic blaxploitation film, I’m Gonna Git You Sucka.
In 2002, Brown was the subject of Lee’s HBO documentary “Jim Brown: All-American.”
Beyond his achievements on the football field and in Hollywood, Jim became an outspoken advocate for civil rights and social justice.
Jim Brown’s impact on and off the field remains indelible and has solidified his status as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
My sincerest condolences and prayers to the Brown family and all who knew and loved Jim.
May he rest in peace.
Source: AP News
