Chicago Bears Player Truned Actor Dick Butkus Dies at 80
Butkus became a Bears legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer in his nine-year career, which started in 1965. He was a middle linebacker whose intimidating presence put some players on their heels before the ball was even snapped.
In a statement released through his former team, Butkus' family said he "died peacefully in his sleep overnight" at his home in Malibu, California.
"Dick was the ultimate Bear, and one of the greatest players in NFL history," team chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. "He was Chicago's son. He exuded what our great city is about and, not coincidentally, what George Halas looks for in a player: toughness, smarts, instincts, passion and leadership.
After a chronic knee injury abruptly ended his career in 1974 at age 31, Butkus appeared in movies such as Any Given Sunday & Necessary Roughness. As well as on TV in dozens of guest roles, & several episodes of My Two Dads.
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In a statement released through his former team, Butkus' family said he "died peacefully in his sleep overnight" at his home in Malibu, California.
"Dick was the ultimate Bear, and one of the greatest players in NFL history," team chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. "He was Chicago's son. He exuded what our great city is about and, not coincidentally, what George Halas looks for in a player: toughness, smarts, instincts, passion and leadership.
After a chronic knee injury abruptly ended his career in 1974 at age 31, Butkus appeared in movies such as Any Given Sunday & Necessary Roughness. As well as on TV in dozens of guest roles, & several episodes of My Two Dads.
Source