Don Meredith, affectionately known as Dandy Don Meredith, was a charismatic figure whose influence stretched from the football fields of Texas to the broadcast booths of Monday Night Football. As a famous Cowboys quarterback, he left an indelible mark on the NFL and sports broadcasting. This article explores his life, career, and enduring legacy, weaving together his journey as a Texas sports hero, his NFL quarterback career, and his role as a beloved NFL commentator. From his Dallas Cowboys days to his iconic “turn out the lights” catchphrase, Don Meredith’s story is one of talent, humor, and lasting impact.
Early Life: A Texas Football Star
Born on April 10, 1938, in Mount Vernon, Texas, Don Meredith grew up in a small town where football was a way of life. His early years shaped him into a Texas football star, with a natural talent that shone through at Mount Vernon High School. Known for his athletic prowess, Dandy Don Meredith earned his nickname through his flair and charm on and off the field.
Meredith attended Southern Methodist University (SMU Mustangs football), where he became a standout quarterback. His college career was marked by impressive performances, setting the stage for his entry into the 1960s NFL. During his time at SMU, he was recognized as a promising talent, catching the eye of professional scouts and paving the way for his professional career with the Dallas Cowboys.
NFL Career: The Heart of the Dallas Cowboys
Rising as a Dallas Cowboys Quarterback
Don Meredith joined the Dallas Cowboys in 1960, becoming one of the first stars of the fledgling franchise. As a Dallas Cowboys quarterback, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Cowboys franchise history. His leadership helped transform the team from an expansion squad into a competitive force. Over nine seasons, Don Meredith Cowboys stats included 17,199 passing yards, 135 touchdowns, and a 74.3 quarterback rating, earning him a spot in the NFL Pro Bowl in 1966.
Meredith’s Don Meredith stats reflect his skill, but his impact went beyond numbers. Known for his grit and determination, he led the Cowboys to two NFL Championship Game appearances in 1966 and 1967. Despite not securing a title, his contributions earned him a place in the Ring of Honor, cementing his status as an NFL legend.
Don Meredith Jersey: A Symbol of Legacy
The Don Meredith jersey, often donned with his iconic number 17, remains a cherished piece of NFL legacy for Cowboys fans. Collectors and fans still seek out his jersey, a testament to his enduring popularity. His time with the Don Meredith Dallas Cowboys era is remembered for thrilling games and his ability to rally the team under pressure.
Hall of Fame Debate
The question of whether Don Meredith belongs in the Football Hall of Fame has sparked much discussion. While he was never inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, his contributions to the Cowboys franchise history and his role as a TV football pioneer have fueled the Football Hall of Fame debate. Supporters argue that his leadership during the Cowboys’ formative years and his cultural impact as a broadcaster make a compelling case.
| Don Meredith NFL Career Highlights | Details |
| Team | Dallas Cowboys (1960–1968) |
| Passing Yards | 17,199 |
| Touchdowns | 135 |
| Pro Bowl | 1966 |
| Ring of Honor | Inducted 1976 |
Don Meredith Broadcasting Career
After retiring from the NFL in 1968, Don Meredith transitioned into a NFL broadcasting career, becoming a Monday Night Football announcer. Joining ABC’s Monday Night Football in 1970, alongside Howard Cosell and Frank Gifford, he brought a unique blend of humor and insight to the booth. His humorous commentator style made him a beloved NFL commentator, resonating with audiences across the country.
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The Iconic “Turn Out the Lights” Catchphrase
One of Don Meredith’s most memorable contributions to sports broadcasting was his famous phrase, “turn out the lights, the party’s over.” Often sung during lopsided games, this catchphrase became a cultural touchstone, spawning Don Meredith turn out the lights memes and even a Don Meredith turn out the lights GIF that circulates online. The full quote, “turn out the lights, the party’s over Don Meredith,” is still referenced in discussions of classic NFL broadcasts.
Meredith’s wit and charm made him a TV sports commentator who connected with fans. His ability to inject humor into tense moments helped define the 1970s sports broadcasting era. Whether delivering quotes by Don Meredith or bantering with Cosell, he became an iconic NFL personality.
| Don Meredith Broadcasting Highlights | Details |
| Show | Monday Night Football (1970–1973, 1977–1984) |
| Network | ABC |
| Famous Quote | “Turn out the lights, the party’s over” |
| Role | Color Commentator |
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Don Meredith’s personal life was as colorful as his professional one. He was married twice, with his Don Meredith spouse including his first wife, Cheryl King, and later, Susan Lessons Dullea. His second marriage to Don Meredith wife Susan was a significant part of his later years. Meredith also had a Don Meredith son, Michael, from his first marriage, and two daughters, Mary and Heather, who remained close to him.
Fans often ask, “How old is Don Meredith?” or “Is Don Meredith still alive?” Tragically, Don Meredith died on December 5, 2010, at the age of 72. The Don Meredith cause of death was a brain hemorrhage, a loss that saddened fans and the football community. His Don Meredith death marked the end of an era, but his Don Meredith legacy lives on through his contributions to football and broadcasting.
| Don Meredith Personal Life | Details |
| Born | April 10, 1938 |
| Died | December 5, 2010 (Don Meredith death) |
| Cause of Death | Brain Hemorrhage (Don Meredith cause of death) |
| Spouses | Cheryl King, Susan Lessons Dullea (Don Meredith spouse) |
| Children | Michael, Mary, Heather (Don Meredith son) |
Don Meredith Net Worth: Financial Legacy
Estimating Don Meredith net worth is challenging due to limited public records, but his earnings came from multiple sources. His NFL quarterback career with the Dallas Cowboys, combined with endorsements and his NFL broadcasting career, contributed significantly to his wealth. By the time of his Don Meredith death, estimates suggest his Don Meredith net worth ranged between $2 million and $5 million, reflecting his success as a retired NFL star and TV sports commentator.
Meredith also explored acting, appearing in TV shows and commercials, which added to his income. His Don Meredith autobiography, It Ain’t Over ‘til the Fat Lady Sings, provided insight into his life and further bolstered his financial standing. While not among the wealthiest athletes, his Don Meredith net worth reflected a successful and multifaceted career.
| Don Meredith Financial Overview | Details |
| Primary Income Sources | NFL Career, Broadcasting, Acting |
| Estimated Don Meredith Net Worth | $2–5 Million |
| Notable Work | Don Meredith autobiography |
Cultural Impact and Memorable Moments
Don Meredith’s influence extended beyond the field and booth. His memorable NFL moments, such as clutch performances for the Dallas Cowboys, and his classic NFL broadcasts made him a household name. His Don Meredith turn out the lights catchphrase became a cultural phenomenon, referenced in pop culture and even inspiring Don Meredith turn out the lights memes that remain popular today.
As a Texas sports hero, Meredith embodied the spirit of the Lone Star State. His journey from a small-town Texas football star to an NFL legend and TV football pioneer resonated with fans. His quotes by Don Meredith, particularly his lighthearted commentary, showcased his humorous commentator style and made him a beloved NFL commentator.
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Legacy: Don Meredith Enduring Influence
The Don Meredith legacy is one of versatility and charisma. As a quarterback for Dallas, he helped build the Dallas Cowboys into a powerhouse. His NFL broadcasting career redefined sports commentary, blending humor with insight. The Ring of Honor induction in 1976 and ongoing Football Hall of Fame debate highlight his impact on the Cowboys franchise history and the broader NFL.
Fans continue to celebrate his contributions through Don Meredith jerseys and by revisiting his football stats and records. His iconic NFL personality and role in 1970s sports broadcasting ensure that Dandy Don Meredith remains a cherished figure in American sports history.
| Don Meredith Legacy Highlights | Details |
| Teams | Dallas Cowboys, SMU Mustangs football |
| Broadcasting | Monday Night Football |
| Cultural Impact | Don Meredith turn out the lights, NFL legend |
| Recognition | Ring of Honor, Don Meredith Hall of Fame debate |
Conclusion
Don Meredith was more than a famous Cowboys quarterback or Monday Night Football announcer; he was a Texas sports hero whose charisma and talent left a lasting mark. From his NFL quarterback career to his humorous commentator days, he brought joy to fans through his play and personality. Though questions like “Is Don Meredith still alive?” or “How old is Don Meredith?” arise, his Don Meredith legacy endures through his memorable NFL moments, classic NFL broadcasts, and the iconic “turn out the lights, the party’s over Don Meredith” phrase. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, humor, and heart in shaping a Don Meredith legacy that continues to shine.