May 25, 2007

Rob Brown '07 as Ernie Davis, Syracuse football star

A Syracuse Post-Standard article this week focuses on Rob Brown and his film role as running back Ernie Davis, the Syracuse University star who became the first African-American player to win the Heisman Trophy and led the Orangemen to the national championship in 1959, before dying of leukemia in 1963. The film, titled The Express, is due out in 2008.

“I feel like he’s an icon like Jackie Robinson,” said Brown. “It’s so sad people don’t know about him. Obviously, Jackie Robinson lived for a lot more years. There was more exposure. Ernie opened up a lot of the same doors for black athletes as Jackie did. It’s mind-boggling that people don’t know, but that’s why we’re doing a film.”

Thanks to Dave for the tip.

Brian Meacham '97 | May 25, 2007 11:51 AM | Alumni

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