John Madden was a true embodiment of football spirit and family values, and this Thanksgiving, NBC is honoring his remarkable legacy. During the Thanksgiving night game between the Miami Dolphins and the Green Bay Packers, NBC will feature a special two-minute segment showcasing the iconic Madden Cruiser making its way from the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, to Green Bay.
Lambeau Field held a special place in Madden’s heart, making this Thanksgiving game particularly significant. Ellie Wright, who produced the opening segment, expressed, “It’s incredible to see how John’s legacy continues to resonate with so many.”
The idea to take the Madden Cruiser on one last journey came to life during production meetings for NBC’s “Sunday Night Football” in June. Madden had gifted the cruiser to the Hall of Fame in 2018, and the Hall was enthusiastic about letting the bus hit the road once more, even if just for a brief period. While it primarily resides in a warehouse during the year, it shines during enshrinement activities.
As it traveled through the Midwest, the bus made stops in Chicago and at a Boys & Girls Club in Wisconsin, before finally reaching Lambeau Field. J.J. Johnson, who drove for Madden during his last six years in broadcasting, narrated the segment and reminisced about the many fond memories the trip revived.
John Madden, who famously shifted from airplanes to buses after feeling anxious in the sky, clocked over 600,000 miles on his first cruiser, which was replaced in 1994. The legacy includes a total of five buses, with the last two still in the Madden family’s possession.
This Thanksgiving marks the third year of the “John Madden Thanksgiving Celebration,” commemorating the Hall of Fame coach and beloved broadcaster who passed away in December 2021. Madden was known for calling numerous Thanksgiving games throughout his broadcasting career, and even though he retired in 2008, his influence on sports broadcasting lingers on.
This year’s Thanksgiving lineup features CBS with the Chicago Bears facing off against the Detroit Lions, followed by a showdown between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys on Fox. NBC will wrap up the day with the evening game from Green Bay—a fitting tribute to a man who loved both football and family gatherings.
Despite no longer being in front of the camera, Madden’s legacy continues to inspire the current broadcasting team. Rob Hyland, who worked closely with Madden, remarked on Madden’s curiosity and storytelling ability, which shaped many in the field.
In tribute to Madden’s traditions, NBC will be honoring game MVPs with turkey legs and presenting turduckens to the winning team. Former Packers safety Leroy Butler, now a chef, has taken to preparing the feasts, some even cooked on the iconic bus.
As Johnson reflected, “When we take the field, we think of John. This night at Lambeau Field, one of his favorite places, is a true testament to his love for football and Thanksgiving. We’re dedicated to putting on the best show in his honor.”
