The Terrible Towel has become as synonymous with the NFL and the Pittsburgh Steelers organization as anything, including the Lombardi Trophy. The word “iconic” is overused in today’s sports world, but the Terrible Towel epitomizes the adjective. It’s a constant from Steelers’ games gone by and remains a tradition carried out today.
Pittsburgh’s fan base is a proud group, and their blue-collar mentality personifies an NFL franchise that stands out amongst their contemporaries. When football fans think of the Pittsburgh Steelers, they think of Terry Bradshaw, “Mean” Joe Greene, Lynn Swann, Jerome Bettis, Ben Roethlisberger, Bill Cowher, and … the Terrible Towel.
How Did The Terrible Towel Begin?
Steelers’ radio reported that Myron Cope created the Terrible Towel during the 1975 playoffs. It quickly became a rallying symbol for Pittsburgh, helping motivate the team to victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl X.
Over the years, the Terrible Towel has evolved into a symbol that players and fans proudly embrace. Whether at the old Three Rivers Stadium or the current Acrisure Stadium, Steelers supporters wave the towel with passion, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
The Terrible Towel travels, too. Steelers fans bring it wherever they go, even into hostile stadiums. While other NFL teams have tried to replicate the concept with their own versions, none have matched the original’s notoriety or cultural impact.
Does the Terrible Towel Translate Off the Football Field?
Although the Terrible Towels are in full force during Steelers games, it has become beloved throughout the Pittsburgh area and beyond. When babies are born, it has become commonplace for medical personnel to wrap the baby in one.
Local bars and restaurants regularly hang the garment on their walls. Couples celebrate with it on their wedding day. The Terrible Towel has been around the globe and has even ventured into outer space. There are no limits to the distinguished yellow cloth.
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The Terrible Towel has also evolved to support various causes and commemorate important occasions. The Steelers’ connection to the Super Bowl is reflected in special editions of the towel celebrating their championship victories.
Additionally, versions of the Terrible Towel honor national holidays and observances, including Christmas, St. Patrick’s Day, and Halloween. Other editions include camouflage designs and a pink version to raise awareness for breast cancer.
Which Famous Celebrities Have Donned The Terrible Towel?
Pittsburgh fans are spread across Hollywood and the entertainment world, and many have proudly showcased the Terrible Towel.
Notable figures who have waved it include former President Jimmy Carter, astronaut Buzz Aldrin, rapper Wiz Khalifa, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, singer Gavin Rossdale, actor Larry the Cable Guy, and actresses Alyssa Milano, Tamara Tunie, and Jane Seymour.
