Jim Brown, the Cleveland Browns fullback who was celebrated as one of the greatest football players in history, passed away at the age of 87.
According to reports, Brown died on Thursday night at his home in Los Angeles.
“On behalf of the entire NFL family, we extend our condolences to Monique and their family,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “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. He inspired fellow athletes to make a difference, especially in the communities in which they lived.”
Brown was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971 and was named to the NFL’s 100th anniversary all-time team in 2019.
From 1957 through 1965, Brown played for the Cleveland Browns of the NFL, and he led the league in rushing yardage every year except 1962.
Brown retired from football to pursue the silver screen. He appeared in The Dirty Dozen (1967) and 100 Rifles (1969) as well as Slaughter (1972) and Three the Hard Way (1974). In addition, he was cast in such comedies as Mars Attacks! (1996) and She Hate Me (2004) and made frequent television appearances.
Throughout his career, he faced issues with the law, including domestic violence accusations and serving a short time in prison.
Spike Lee directed a documentary titled Jim Brown: All American.
An eternal football legend, Brown was also celebrated as a civil rights activist.
