Alex Karras
Alexander George Karras (born July 15, 1935 in Gary, Indiana) is an former football player and actor best known for being on the Detroit Lions (1958-1971) and for his role on the ABC sitcom Webster (alongside his real-life wife Susan Clark) as the titular character's adoptive father.
During his NFL career he, along with Packer great Paul Hornung, was suspended for one season (1963) for gambling. He later figured prominently in a George Plimpton sports book, Mad Ducks and Bears.
He was a commentator and analyst in Monday Night Football from 1974 to 1976, being replaced by returning "MNF" original commentator, Don Meredith. He also played a minor role in Blazing Saddles as the sheriff's deputy "Mongo"; in one especially memorable scene, he knocks out a horse with one punch. He also appeared as the Sheriff, Porky's brother, in Porky's.
Trivia
- Karras played football for the Iowa Hawkeyes. In 1956, he and helped the Hawkeyes win the Rose Bowl. In conjunction with the 100 years of Hawkeye football celebration in 1989, Iowa Hawkeye fans selected an all-time team. The squad featured 11 players on offense and defense, two kickers and 15 special mention players who received strong fan support. Alex Karras was voted to the team as a defensive lineman.
- In 1957, Karras won the Outland Trophy. Also in that year, Karras placed 2nd in voting for the Heisman Trophy.
- Karras wrestled Dick the Bruiser in 1963.