Who Is Phyllis George? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Phyllis George was born on June 25, 1949, and tragically passed away on May 14, 2020. At the time of her passing, she was 70 years old and had a diverse career. George was a pioneer in the world of sportscasting, becoming one of the first women to hold such a prominent role in sports television. Additionally, she was an accomplished actress, producer, and businesswoman, known for her charm and tenacity. Her life story remains an inspiration for many aspiring artists and entrepreneurs.
Occupation | Sportscaster |
---|---|
Date of Birth | June 25, 1949 |
Age | 70 Years |
Birth Place | Denton, Texas, U.S. |
Horoscope | Cancer |
Country | U.S |
Date of death | 14 May, 2020 |
Died Place | Lexington, Kentucky, U.S. |
Popularity
Phyllis George's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Phyllis George stood at an imposing height of 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm). While specific weight measurements are not publicly available, she was known for maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle throughout her career, particularly during her time as a television host and sportscaster. Her poised presence and striking appearance contributed to her success in both the entertainment and business realms.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Phyllis George was married twice in her lifetime. She first married former NFL quarterback Todd Boatright in 1971, and they had one child together. The couple divorced in 1978. In 1981, she married fellow businessman John E. George, with whom she had two children. They remained married until the end of her life. While Phyllis George did have significant relationships, the focus of her life was often on her professional endeavors rather than her romantic partnerships.
A low point of her eight-month stint on The CBS Morning News happened when George embarrassed herself during a May 1985 interview with Gary Dotson and Cathleen Webb.
Dotson just had been freed after six years in prison on a rape charge after Webb recanted her claim that he was the assailant, admitting to making the accusation after discovering she had become pregnant through consensual sex with her boyfriend, fearful that her foster parents would kick her out of their home.
Both appeared on the CBS program as part of (as George later told Tom Shales of The Washington Post) a Webb-Dotson press tour "charade." Both were on or had appeared on NBC News and ABC News as well as other media outlets. As the segment began to wrap, George first suggested the two shake hands.
After a brief hesitation from them and no hand shake, George then proposed they "hug it out." A brief moment of awkwardness followed but no hug. The invitation to embrace was deemed highly inappropriate prompting a few phone calls from irate CBS viewers. George also was criticized in the press.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her passing in 2020, Phyllis George was estimated to have a net worth of approximately $5 million. Her wealth was accumulated through successful ventures in sportscasting, acting, and her entrepreneurial projects. George's career spanned several decades, leading her to become a highly respected figure in both the entertainment and business sectors.
Career, Business, and Investments
George's career began in the early 1970s when she became Miss Texas and subsequently Miss America, which propelled her into the spotlight. She transitioned into television, where she co-hosted the CBS television show "The NFL Today," breaking barriers for women in sports commentary. Beyond television, she embarked on a successful business career, launching her own line of products, including fitness videos, cookbooks, and beauty products. Phyllis also served as the first female chairman of the Kentucky Governor's Commission on Women, showcasing her commitment to women's empowerment throughout her career.
Phyllis Ann George (June 25, 1949 – May 14, 2020) was an American businesswoman, actress, and sportscaster. In 1975, George was hired as a reporter and co-host of the CBS Sports pre-show The NFL Today, becoming one of the first women to hold an on-air position in national televised sports broadcasting. She also served as the First Lady of Kentucky from 1979 to 1983.
Social Network
Phyllis George maintained a presence on social media through various platforms, where she shared insights into her life, career, and advocacy efforts. Although she has passed away, her legacy continues to inspire a new generation of women in media, sports, and business. Fans and followers remember her fondly and often share memories and tributes through social networks.
George was married twice. Her first marriage was to Hollywood producer Robert Evans (wed in 1977 and divorced in 1978), and her second to Kentucky Fried Chicken owner and governor of Kentucky John Y. Brown Jr (wed in 1979 and divorced in 1998). George served as Kentucky's First Lady during Brown's term in office.
During her marriage to Brown, she had two children, Lincoln Tyler George Brown and Pamela Ashley Brown. Like Phyllis, Pamela would also become a journalist, even landing various anchor and correspondent positions at CNN after joining the network in 2021. She is sometimes quoted for the words "Life is what you make it.
My old expression is, `If you snooze, you lose; if you snore, you lose more".
Education
Phyllis George graduated from the University of North Texas, where she earned a degree in clothing and textiles. Her education laid the groundwork for her multifaceted career, allowing her to excel in numerous domains, including television, acting, and business.
She attended North Texas State University (now University of North Texas) for three years until she was crowned Miss Texas in 1970. At that time, Texas Christian University awarded scholarships to Miss Texas honorees. As a result, George left North Texas and enrolled at TCU until winning the Miss America crown later that fall. She was a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority.
Conclusion
Phyllis George's influence as a trailblazer in sportscasting and her entrepreneurial success serve as a testament to her remarkable legacy. Even in 2025, her impact is felt and celebrated, ensuring that she remains an essential figure in the history of American media and beyond.