Gene Hackman Passes Away at 95: His Unique Connections to the NFL
The renowned actor had significant ties to the NFL, including a special Super Bowl narration project.
Gene Hackman, known for his iconic role in the film Hoosiers, had notable ties to the NFL. One of his connections was through his narration work for the series America’s Game: The Super Bowl Champions. Hackman narrated four episodes as part of a documentary honoring the previous 40 Super Bowl champions, lending his voice to:
- 1981 49ers (Super Bowl XVI champions)
- 1984 49ers (Super Bowl XIX champions)
- 1987 Redskins (Super Bowl XXII champions)
- 1989 49ers (Super Bowl XXIV champions)
Other famous narrators included Bruce Willis and Alec Baldwin. Hackman also maintained a friendship with Jack Del Rio, the former Jaguars head coach, attending games and practices. He also portrayed a coach in the movie The Replacements, playing coach Jimmy McGinty.
“The legendary Gene Hackman lent his distinctive voice to #NFL Films, narrating four episodes of their tremendous America’s Game series. RIP🕯️”
- Kevin Gallagher, February 28, 2025.
