Although this legendary athlete was well known to football fans, Smith didn't become a household name until 2006, when he was crowned the winner of the third edition of
Dancing with the Stars. A go-getter both on and off the field, the running back earned many titles during his 14-year NFL career, played in three Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys and simultaneously maintained a stable home life with his wife and children. After retiring from the game in 2005, he became a businessman, helping to launch the retail real-estate company SmithCypress Partners. In a calculated decision to up his profile, he signed on to
Dancing With the Stars the next year and charmed audiences with his charisma, commanding frame and deft footwork, even though he was initially considered an underdog.
Emmitt Smith Fast Facts:
- Although he left college after his junior year to enter the NFL draft, he took classes every off-season and completed his degree in 1996.
- His wife Patricia was Miss Virginia 1994 and a runner-up in that year's Miss USA pageant. She was formerly married to comedian Martin Lawrence.
- Was the MVP of Super Bowl XXVIII.
- The NFL's all-time leading rusher with 18,355 yards.
- Helped establish the nonprofit Open Doors Foundation for disadvantaged youth and also works with Make-A-Wish Foundation, Salvation Army and Ronald McDonald House Charities.
- Member of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports.
- Won Season 3 of ABC's Dancing With the Stars with partner Cheryl Burke.
- Emmitt Smith Relationships:
- Connie - Sister
- Emil Smith - Brother
- Emmitt James Smith IV - Son
- Emmitt James Smith Jr. - Father
- Emory Smith - Brother
- Erik Smith - Brother
- Jasmine Page Lawrence - Stepdaughter
- Marsha - Sister
- Mary Smith - Mother
- Patricia Southall - Wife
- Rheagen Smith - Daughter
- Skylar Smith - Daughter
- College:
- University of Florida, Gainesville, FL (BA in Public Recreation, 1996)
