Actor Bubba Smith Passes Away

“Hightower of Police Academy Fame Passes Away”

Date: 8/3/2011

Location: Los Angeles, California

Former NFL player and successful actor Bubba Smith has passed away. Smith passed away at the age of sixty six. Smith was a top college player while at Michigan State in East Lansing. Bubba Smith was so successful in his collegiate career that he would end up becoming the number one overall pick in the 1967 draft. Smith would go on to be a part of an Baltimore Colts Super Bowl winning team in the 1970’s.

Smith was a very tall man who’s height and overall great personality allowed him to translate well to the world of Hollywood after his NFL career ended. He was best known for his role as Moses Hightower. in the Police Academy franchise. There was even an attempt to turn Police Academy into a television franchise.

If there was a casting call for an intimidating presence or a bodyguard role, Smith would certainly fit the role due to his large stature. Some of his later films were not as well known, but Bubba Smith knew how to entertain fans whether he was in an acting role or on the gridiron.

Not every project that Smith was involved with ended up being successful. The show “Blue Thunder” where he co-starred with former Chicago Bears linebacker Dick Butkus.

The show only lasted one season on ABC. Dick Butkus would probably admit that he wasn’t that great of an actor, but the show also spawned some future stars such as comedian Dana Carvey.

Despite the failure of “Blue Thunder” Bubba Smith kept going and landing roles. He was involved in football themed Miller Lite commercials for a number of years. He would make guest appearances on successful sitcoms such as “Good Times” and “Family Matters”

Several of Smith’s former teammates and colleagues have expressed their sadness over his passing. Bubba Smith will be missed by family and friends.