Dick Butkus, former Chicago Bears linebacker and esteemed actor, passed away sadly at 80. While no official cause of his passing was provided, family has confirmed that he died peacefully while sleeping at his Malibu, California residence.
Butkus, best known for his remarkable football career with the Chicago Bears from 1965 to 1973, also made an indelible mark in entertainment by way of an impressive acting resume. He seamlessly transitioned from gridiron to screen and has since appeared in several memorable movies and television shows over his lengthy career.
One of Butkus’s signature roles came in 1971 in the sports drama “Brian’s Song”, where he showed both on and off-field talent. Butkus continued making waves in Hollywood through appearances in “The Longest Yard” in 1974 and eventually “Any Given Sunday” in 1999, further cementing his place as a versatile actor.
Dick Butkus rose to stardom beyond film when he collaborated with fellow NFL star Bubba Smith in a series of memorable commercials for Miller Lite during the 1970s. Their iconic catchphrase – “tastes great, less filling” – became part of pop culture lore and forever associated Butkus with beer advertising.
Butkus was also known to grace television screens with his presence, often taking on series-regular roles on such shows as “My Two Dads” (1987-1989) as Ed Klawicki, and later playing Mike Katowinski on Hang Time (1998-2000).
Butkus has appeared as a guest star on some of television’s most iconic series, including “The Rockford Files,” “Wonder Woman,” “Taxi,” Fantasy Island,” The Love Boat,” Matlock,”MacGyver”, and Coach.” His versatile acting abilities enabled him to effortlessly transition between genres while seamlessly filling roles on screen.
His final TV appearance came in 2014 when he made a cameo as himself on Disney Channel’s “I Didn’t Do It”, leaving an indelible mark on yet another generation of viewers.
Dick Butkus will always be remembered fondly not only as an iconic footballer, but also for his acting prowess on screen and field. His legacy will live on in the hearts of fans who marvelled at his athletic prowess on both platforms.
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