The Unconventional Dream of Robin Williams: A Male Cheerleader for the Denver Broncos

In 1979, Robin Williams, the renowned American actor and comedian, made headlines when he expressed a surprising wish to become a male cheerleader for the Denver Broncos NFL team. This story encapsulates not only Williams' diverse interests but also the unique moment in American sports culture.

A Surprise Revelation

During an interview with the Denver Post on November 7, 1979, Williams stunned the sports world by announcing his intention to join the Denver Broncos cheerleaders. This candid admission, made months before the Super Bowl, caught the public off guard, given Williams' established career in acting and comedy. The interviewee played down the idea, mentioning it was a joke, but the potential behind his words still sparked curiosity and speculation.

The Athletic Life Before Fame

Williams, born in Chicago, had a background in sports before he became a household name. He attended Libertyville High School, where he participated in sports like basketball, baseball, and football. His interest in cheerleading, albeit as a male in a predominantly female sport, hints at his adventurous nature and perhaps a desire to embrace alternative sports passions.

The Attraction to Cheerleading

Williams' interest in cheerleading went beyond mere novelty. Cheerleading for a professional football team, regardless of gender, was an utterly unique and unusual concept during the 1970s. The male cheerleaders were viewed as a visual spectacle, a display of athleticism and showmanship that the crowd could enjoy between plays. Williams' fascination might have stemmed from his desire to participate in an event he had never experienced and the excitement of an unconventional role that could challenge traditional perceptions.

The Media Frenzy

When the story broke, it quickly became a media sensation. Several newspapers and television stations reported on the news, with the Denver Post providing the primary coverage. The national interest in Williams' wish to cheer for the Broncos was partly due to his rising star status and partly due to the novelty of a male cheerleader. The edition that featured the interview prominently displayed Williams, his expression a blend of playfulness and seriousness, suggesting his genuine interest in the proposition.

Interview Details and Reception

Williams spoke about his wish to cheer for the Broncos in a candid manner, expressing that it was a purely playful idea. He mentioned the Broncos were his favorite team and that his wish was more of a lighthearted joke than a genuine career move. However, the idea garnered significant attention, both locally and nationally. The interview concluded with a photo of Williams in a cheerleader's uniform, wearing a color-coordinated Broncos outfit, which further fueled the public's interest and imagination.

Williams' Career Path

Despite the public's fascination with Williams' dream of becoming a male cheerleader, his career took a different path. By 1980, he had already appeared on the Emmy-nominated Mork Mindy, landing one of his signature roles. As an actor and comedian, Williams continued to soar, winning an Academy Award for Best Actor in 1981 for his role in The Rain Man. His dream of cheering for the Broncos, though not realized, remained a highlight in his eclectic and diverse career.

Conclusion

Robin Williams' wish to cheerlead for the Denver Broncos in 1979 was a testament to his adventurous spirit and the spirit of the times. It provided a delightful glimpse into the intersection of sports, entertainment, and the unconventional. While the dream remained just that, a dream, it was a moment that added to Williams' mystique and made him unforgettable to fans of the performing arts.