Frank Gifford

Date of Birth: August 16, 1930

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: August 9, 2015

Biography

Frank Gifford was an American football player, television sports commentator, and actor, celebrated for his versatile athletic skills and charismatic on-screen presence. Born Francis Newton Gifford in Santa Monica, California, Gifford played his entire NFL career with the New York Giants, where he excelled as a running back, wide receiver, and defensive back. His career spanned from 1952 to 1964, and after a brief hiatus, he returned for a final season in 1966. Gifford was an eight-time Pro Bowl selection and a key figure in the Giants’ 1956 NFL Championship victory. His dynamic playing style and leadership earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977. Following his football career, Gifford transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, becoming a beloved commentator on ABC’s “Monday Night Football” for nearly three decades. Off the field, Gifford was known for his philanthropic efforts and involvement in various charitable organizations. He was married three times, most notably to television personality Kathie Lee Gifford. Frank Gifford passed away on August 9, 2015, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential figures in American sports history.

5 Interesting Facts about Frank Gifford

1. Frank Gifford played both offense and defense for the New York Giants, a rare feat in the modern era of specialized positions.

2. He won the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 1956.

3. Gifford appeared in several films and TV shows, including a role in the 1959 movie “Up Periscope.”

4. He was part of the inaugural broadcasting team for ABC’s “Monday Night Football” in 1971.

5. Gifford was posthumously diagnosed with Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a neurodegenerative disease linked to repeated head injuries in athletes.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Frank Gifford

1. “Pro football is like nuclear warfare. There are no winners, only survivors.”

2. “When I was young, I dreamed of playing for the Giants and winning the championship. I never dreamed it would actually happen.”

3. “Television is a powerful medium, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it.”

4. “The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat are what make sports so compelling.”

5. “I’ve been blessed to have a career that spanned two passions—football and broadcasting.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Frank Gifford’s net worth was estimated to be around $18 million.

Children

Frank Gifford had five children: 1. Victoria Denise Gifford (with first wife, Maxine Avis Ewart) 2. Jeffrey Scott Gifford (with first wife, Maxine Avis Ewart) 3. Kyle Gifford (with first wife, Maxine Avis Ewart) 4. Cody Newton Gifford (with third wife, Kathie Lee Gifford) 5. Cassidy Erin Gifford (with third wife, Kathie Lee Gifford)