NFL hall of famer Jim Brown was a complex individual. He was a natural athlete, blending power and speed, and becoming a legend on the gridiron. Author Dave Zirin poses the question, was Brown the greatest athlete in the last one hundred years? Off the field, Brown became a racial activist, fought against injustices, attempted to become the black John Wayne in Hollywood, and was arrested and faced assault allegations.
Brown was a trendsetter, never shying away from a controversy. He was one of the first stars to retire in his prime. Brown spoke out against legendary coach Paul Brown, which resulted in his dismissal. Dubbed “the locker room lawyer,” Brown hired an agent to represent him, the first star to do so. Brown received much critism when he supported President Donald Trump, but Zirin points out that he lobbied for both Republicans and Democrats.
Zirin examines Brown’s life, separating facts from mythology. Many believe Brown was the greatest football player of all time. He played nine seasons, and led the league in rushing in all but one in his illustrious career. Brown never missed games despite touching the ball 60% of all Cleveland Brown offensive plays. Paul Brown would defend this use of his star running back by saying, “When you have a big gun, you shoot it.”
Despite fighting for racial equality, Brown had his issues with Martin Luther King Jr. Even though Brown became an icon in Cleveland, he spoke out against the city due to racism. After his NFL days, Brown turned to acting, received top billings, and even doing a love scene with the gorgeous Raquel Welch in 100 Rifles. He spoke out against OJ Simpson, but like “The Juice,” would be accused of gender violence, and one woman accused him of throwing her from a baloney.
Zirin does a fabulous job of portraying the real Jim Brown, who became a hero to many. As we have learned, even heroes have their flaws. The author presents Brown’s life and career with balance.
By: Dave Zirin
Narrated by: Dave Zirin
Length: 8 hrs and 24 mins
Release date: 05-15-18
Publisher: Penguin Audio