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Famed NFL player and actor Dick Butkus died Thursday at the age of 80.
Butkus’ family took to social media to confirm his death, writing, “The Butkus family confirms that football and entertainment legend Dick Butkus died peacefully in his sleep overnight at home in Malibu, California.”
The statement continued, “The Butkus family is gathering with Dick’s wife Helen. They appreciate your prayers and support. Additional information will be provided when it is available.”
Butkus, who was drafted by the Chicago Bears, played for eight seasons in the NFL, retiring in 1973.
He played himself in the iconic TV movie “Brian’s Song” in 1971.
After he quit professional football, Butkus began his acting career in earnest, appearing on numerous TV shows, including “Emergency!” (1974), “McMillan & Wife” (1974), “The Six Million Dollar Man” (1975), “The Rockford Files” (1976), “Wonder Woman” (1979), “Taxi” (1979), “The Love Boat” (1984), and “Murder, She Wrote” (1985).
He also acted in a number of films, including “Mother, Jugs & Speed” (1976), “Johnny Dangerously” (1984), “Gremlins 2: The New Batch” (1990), and “The Last Boy Scout” (1991).
Butkus is survived by his wife Helen; their three children, Ricky, Matt, and Nicki; and their grandchildren.
