Jim Brown, an actor, football player, and leader in the civil rights movement, died on Friday at the age of 87. Michael Douglas gave him an emotional tribute.
Michael posted a heartfelt message and a photo of the deceased former NFL player on social media, expressing his condolences and those of his family.
I am deeply saddened to hear of Jim Brown’s passing, he wrote. A leader both on and off the field, a true legend, and one of the greatest NFL players of all time. During this difficult time, our family is sending its prayers and thoughts to the Brown family.
Best wishes, Jim Brown.”.
Michael’s followers inundated him with messages expressing their sorrow at the news. Two kids were born to Michael and his wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones. It hurts to lose legends, one person said, and another added, “May he rest in peace.”.
The Pro Football Hall of Famer died peacefully on Thursday night in his Los Angeles home. His wife, Monique Brown, formally announced the news on Instagram. Next to a picture of her kissing Jim, she wrote, “It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of my husband, Jim Brown.”.
“He passed away the previous night in peace at our LA home. In addition to playing football, he was also a well-known actor and political activist.
He served as our family’s grandfather, father, and devoted, admirable husband.
Our souls are being torn apart.”.
On Twitter, the Cleveland Browns referred to him as a “legend, leader, activist, and visionary.”.
He played for the team from 1957 to 1965, and in 2016, a statue of him was erected outside the stadium.
He was regarded as one of the best lacrosse players in the world in addition to playing football, which led to his 1984 induction into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame. His athletic career was illustrious. Jim unexpectedly retired at the age of 30 in 1966 and started acting.
More than 30 films featured Jim, including Oliver Stone’s The Dirty Dozen and Any Given Sunday.
Jim was also one of the most vocal professional black athletes in the 1950s civil rights movement.
Roger Goodell, the commissioner of the NFL, released a statement saying that Monique and their family are expressing our condolences on behalf of the entire NFL family. Jim Brown was one of the most dominating athletes to ever step onto a sports field. He was a gifted athlete. He also contributed to change as a cultural icon.
“During the course of his nine-year NFL career, which included time during the nation’s civil rights movement, he became recognized as a trailblazer and an inspiration for athletes who engage in social activities outside of their sport. He inspired other athletes to make the world a better place, particularly their own communities.
