Keith Olbermann Faces Backlash for Remarks on Lou Holtz Following Coach’s Death

Former ESPN broadcaster Keith Olbermann sparked widespread criticism Wednesday after referring to the late Lou Holtz, the legendary Notre Dame football coach, as a “legendary scumbag” in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. The comment came on the day Holtz’s death was publicly announced.

Olbermann’s post responded to a clip of Holtz from 2020 criticizing President Joe Biden’s stance on abortion rights, calling Biden “Catholic in name only.” Olbermann wrote, “Legendary scumbag, yes,” a statement that quickly drew condemnation from numerous users on the social media platform.

“You’re a scumbag that needs mental help,” one X user responded to Olbermann. Another wrote, “Lou Holtz had more class, integrity and genuine decency in his pinky finger than you’ll ever display in your lifetime.” Others characterized Olbermann’s tone as “grumpy, lonely, Godless.”

History of Controversial Statements

Olbermann has a documented history of making politically charged and often contentious statements on social media. Previously, he criticized members of the U.S. Men’s hockey team for accepting an invitation from President Donald Trump to the State of the Union address, labeling those who attended as “indelibly stupid and misogynist.” He also targeted University of Kentucky swimmer Kaitlynn Wheeler in January for celebrating a women’s rights rally concerning transgender athletes.

Tributes to Lou Holtz

Following the announcement of Holtz’s death at age 89, an outpouring of tributes came from across the political spectrum. Republican lawmakers, including Senators Tommy Tuberville, Todd Young, Tom Cotton, and Lindsey Graham, along with several House Representatives, offered their condolences. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Indiana Governor Mike Braun also publicly mourned Holtz’s passing. Former U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Rudy Giuliani also paid tribute.

Notably, prominent Democratic leaders with football backgrounds – including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Senator Cory Booker, Representatives Colin Allred, and Kam Buckner – had not publicly acknowledged Holtz’s death as of Thursday morning, according to reports.

Lou Holtz was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Trump in 2020.