Celebs React to the Death of Chicago Bears Legend/Actor Dick Butkus

Following the news that Dick Butkus died Thursday at the age of 80, several celebrities and sports figures took to social media to pay tribute to the legendary Chicago Bears linebacker and actor.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. "Dick’s intuition, toughness and athleticism made him the model linebacker whose name will forever be linked to the position and the Chicago Bears.”

Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson shared his tribute on X, formerly Twitter. “NFL Hall of Famer and one of the hardest hitting linebackers I’ve ever seen in my lifetime, Dick Butkus, passed away today. May he rest in peace! Cookie and I are praying for his family and loved ones!”

Chicago Sun-Times film and TV critic Rickard Roeper, former co-host of Ebert & Roeper, posted, “Dick Butkus was one of the most ferocious defenders in NFL history, a likable presence on TV and in the movies, a great radio interview, a CVS High School/Illini/Bears icon, and even the inspiration for Sylvester Stallone naming his beloved bull mastiff 'Butkus.'"' #legend”

Rocky actor Carl Weathers posted, “RIP Dick Butkus. One of a kind! #BePeace” while reposting video highlights from the Bears great’s career.

Legendary Chicago Cubs pitcher Fergie Jenkins also weighed in, posting, “One of the greatest linebackers of all time and one heck of a guy. Chicago lost a legend. #dickbutkus.”

ESPN Chicago hots Peggy Kusinski wrote, “Dick Butkus was Chicago! He understood — going to CVS HS then playing college at Illinois and only playing for the Chicago Bears as a pro. He may have gone Hollywood on us, but was Chicago grit in his heart! Rest in peace to the goat.”

NPR Weekend Edition host Scott Simon posted, “Dick Butkus: pure Chicago. Sturdy, tough, and cheerful about it. RIP and thanks.”

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Isray wrote, “Rest in peace, Dick Butkus.  LEGEND.  One of the few whose name was a synonym for NFL.🙏”

Actor/wrestler Mick Foley posted, “This is Mick. I just learned of the passing of @ChicagoBears LB Dick Butkus. My favorite all-time player. I grew up with a poster of Butkus on my wall, and he signed it for me on the one occasion we met. A true legend. #RIPDickButkus”