Video Game Icon and NFL Hall of Fame Coach John Madden Has Passed Away

Video Game Icon and NFL Hall of Fame Coach John Madden Has Passed Away

John Madden, who became an icon in the NFL as a head coach, legendary commentator, and an icon in video games through the Madden franchise has passed away at the age of 85.

Madden rose to fame and earned a spot in the NFL Hall of Fame as head coach of the Oakland Raiders from 1969-1978 as he led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 1976. Madden then became a legend and unforgettable voice in the commentator’s booth as he broadcasted for CBS, Fox, ABC, and NBC, with commentating and coverage on NFL games weekly. This led Madden into many advertisement opportunities and cameos in film and TV and stapled himself as an unforgettable part of Pop Culture in America well after his success as a coach.

He was also known for his time spent involved in video games and helped birth the Madden franchise that we all still play today that started with John Madden Football 1988. His name, likeness, and even his voice have given life to the franchise for 23 years as Electronic Arts continue his legacy through the yearly releases of the NFL simulation games. Throughout his time with us, he provided an infectious personality and brought passion and love to not only the world of sports but to video games, pop culture, and his fans.

The official Madden Twitter account released a statement honoring Madden which you can check out below:

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement on behalf of the league saying:

“On behalf of the entire NFL family, we extend our condolences to Virginia, Mike, Joe, and their families, nobody loved football more than Coach. He was football. He was an incredible sounding board to me and so many others. There will never be another John Madden, and we will forever be indebted to him for all he did to make football and the NFL what it is today.”

As much as this loss is felt by everyone, our deepest condolences go out to John’s wife, sons, and all of his family and friends. Thanks for bringing your one-of-a-kind energy and love to the sport, coach.