Jayne Kennedy: From Wickliffe Grit to Pioneering Sports Media—Lessons in Resilience and Unstoppable Ambition
Imagine a world where NFL broadcasts were a far cry from today’s high-tech spectacles—no internet, no sprawling cable packages, just the raw energy of the game. In the late 1970s, tuning into CBS’s “The NFL Today” meant encountering a familiar trio: Brent Musburger’s steady anchor, Irv Cross’s insightful analysis, and Jimmy the Greek’s unfiltered predictions. Yet, amidst this established landscape, a remarkable presence emerged, shattering conventions and paving new paths. That face belonged to Jayne Kennedy, an African-American woman who defied expectations in sports broadcasting, a testament to a life richly lived and now chronicled in her memoir, “Plain Jayne.”
Kennedy, now 73, has lived a life so expansive and diverse it could fill volumes—and it does. Her newly released memoir, “Plain Jayne,” offers a candid look at a journey that began in Wickliffe, Ohio. Despite the seemingly modest title, Kennedy is anything but plain; her story is one of extraordinary resilience, groundbreaking achievement, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity.
The Roots of Resilience: Wickliffe to the World Stage
Growing up in Wickliffe as one of six children, Kennedy credits her upbringing and family values with shaping her core identity. “This is who I am,” she asserts, explaining the memoir’s title. “My core is the way I grew up, the way my family raised me. The person I became is someone who is not a nasty, evil person.” Wickliffe remains her “home base, my safe haven,” a grounding influence throughout her multifaceted career.
Her memoir traces a path from Northeast Ohio to both coasts, a project she nurtured for 25 years. The impetus, she recalls, came from a surprising conversation with psychic Kenny Kingston, who relayed a message from her late grandmother: “You know who wants you to write this book? Your grandmother.” This poignant encouragement catalyzed a journey of introspection and storytelling.
“Plain Jayne” avoids the self-aggrandizing pitfalls common in many memoirs, instead offering an honest appraisal of her accomplishments and tribulations. Kennedy’s humility shines through, a trait evident even during her Miss Ohio win in 1970. She vividly recounts her disbelief upon hearing her name announced, her sister’s gentle nudge confirming her victory. This groundedness, she explains, stemmed from a promise to herself: “I made a promise to myself that I would never become anyone but Jayne from Wickliffe, Ohio.”
Breaking Barriers in Sports Media
Kennedy’s early career aspirations were as varied as her talents. Idolizing Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress, she considered careers in drama or politics. She modeled, appeared in Cleveland television commercials, and spent eight years as an actress before spotting an opening on “The NFL Today.” Her initial thought was simple: “I can do this job.”
The path, however, was far from straightforward. When she inquired about an audition, she was met with resistance, a thinly veiled message that they sought a white female journalist. Undeterred, Kennedy leveraged her connections, famously calling Jim Brown, who intervened on her behalf. This led to a face-to-face interview against 15 other finalists, a select group from an initial pool of 2,000 applicants.
In a room dominated by blonde competitors, Kennedy found an unconventional approach. Instead of a rigid Q&A, she proposed a game of backgammon, a favorite pastime. This relaxed the atmosphere and allowed her to present her authentic self. “I said, ‘I’m just going to be me, I don’t have to exaggerate, I don’t have to prove anything.’” The strategy paid off spectacularly. Brent Musburger famously declared, “It’s Jayne or nobody,” a powerful endorsement that secured her place.
Kennedy’s resourcefulness extended beyond the audition room. Early in her tenure, CBS did not cover her wardrobe expenses. She negotiated a deal: if she sourced outfits from a boutique, the network would provide on-screen credit. This arrangement proved mutually beneficial, granting exposure to Zagobi Boutique, a black-owned business in Manhattan, and reaching millions of football fans weekly.
Her career also involved significant interviews, including boxing promoter Don King and the legendary Muhammad Ali. A pivotal moment came when she secured an exclusive interview with Ali before his rematch with Leon Spinks, a feat that solidified her position at CBS and earned her a year-long contract. This ability to “get the interview” and take calculated risks would define her professional trajectory.
Beyond the Broadcast Booth: A Life of Passion and Persistence
Kennedy’s connection to football was deep-seated, with a fondness for the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Dallas Cowboys. Her early memories are painted with the “brown paper on every door” for the Browns and the formidable “Steel Curtain” defense of the Steelers, with whom quarterback Terry Bradshaw became a friend. Her allegiance to the Cowboys was cemented by a childhood ice cream outing and a memorable encounter with a Cowboys player.
Her unwavering commitment to her pursuits—whether as a singer, dancer, actress, journalist, or businesswoman—remains a core tenet of her philosophy. “I had no hesitation in my mind,” she states, highlighting a confidence that was particularly noteworthy in an era with fewer women in prominent sports media roles. Her advice to young women is simple yet powerful: “I think you have to be totally persistent. You cannot let anyone tell you no.”
Kennedy’s innate inquisitiveness fueled her journalism, but her interests spanned far beyond sports. She embraced the Beatles, pioneered exercise entrepreneurship with her “Love Your Body” videos, and even rediscovered a childhood skill in sewing. A testament to her enduring creativity, she crafted a gown in two days for an impromptu Oscar invitation. At 73, she continues to create fine jewelry, launch a fragrance, and run her company, “Not Done Yet”—a mantra that encapsulates her vibrant approach to life.
The Enduring Legacy of Opening Doors
Jayne Kennedy’s impact extends beyond her personal achievements. She views herself as a trailblazer, acknowledging the doors she opened for others. “It might be trite to say that because a lot of people do say that,” she muses, “But I can see the actual doors that I did open.” Her journey from Wickliffe to national television, her ability to navigate challenging industries with grace and tenacity, serves as a profound inspiration.
Her story resonates powerfully in today’s media landscape, where diversity and representation are increasingly valued. Kennedy’s unwavering authenticity and persistence offer timeless lessons for anyone striving to make their mark. As the media continues to evolve, with countless outlets dissecting every aspect of sports, the foundation laid by pioneers like Jayne Kennedy is more critical than ever. Her life is a compelling reminder that true success is not just about reaching the destination, but about the courage, grit, and heart displayed on the journey.
What lessons can we draw from Jayne Kennedy’s remarkable journey in embracing new challenges and staying true to oneself? Share your thoughts on persistence and authenticity in the comments below!
