Frank Gifford

Francis Newton Gifford (August 16, 1930 – August 9, 2015) was an American professional football player, actor, and television sports commentator. Born in Santa Monica, California, he was the son of Lola Mae (née Hawkins) and Weldon Gifford, an oil driller, and graduated from Kern County Union High School, later renamed Bakersfield High School.

Over a 12-year playing career, Gifford appeared as a halfback, flanker, and safety for the New York Giants of the National Football League. In 1956 he won the NFL Most Valuable Player Award from United Press International, the same season the Giants won the NFL Championship. He participated in five league championship games and was named to eight Pro Bowls.

After retiring as a player, Gifford became a sportscaster, working as a play-by-play announcer and commentator for 27 years on ABC's Monday Night Football. His broadcasting work, which also included Wide World of Sports and the Olympics, earned him an Emmy Award. He was married to television host Kathie Lee Gifford from 1986 until his death.

Gifford was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977.