Gifford, Frank (1930-2015), was a star college and professional football player who became a popular sports personality on television. Gifford was an announcer and commentator on the popular “Monday Night Football” telecasts from 1971 to 1997. In 1977, he won an Emmy Award as the outstanding sports personality on television.
Frank Newton Gifford was born in Santa Monica, California, on Aug. 16, 1930. He was a star offensive and defensive back for the University of Southern California, graduating in 1952. He then played professional football for the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL) from 1952 to 1960 and from 1962 to 1964.
Following his retirement after the 1964 season, Gifford began a sportscasting career. He also wrote several books. Gifford was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 1975 and the Professional Football Hall of Fame in 1977. He died on Aug. 9, 2015. His second wife, Kathie Lee Gifford, is a singer, actress, and TV personality.
