Full Breakdown
Terry Bradshaw's Absence from FOX NFL Sunday Sparks Concern
11/18/2025, 3:26:09 PM
Overview of the Incident
Terry Bradshaw, the legendary quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers and a long-time host of FOX NFL Sunday, was absent from the Week 11 broadcast due to illness. The 77-year-old was sent home after arriving at the studio feeling unwell. His absence raised concerns among fans and colleagues alike, prompting Bradshaw to reassure them via Instagram that he was simply suffering from a cold and expected to return the following week.
Official Statements & Responses
Curt Menefee, the host of FOX NFL Sunday, addressed Bradshaw's absence during the broadcast, stating, "You may notice that Terry Bradshaw is not with us. He came to work sick this morning, so he decided to go home not feeling well. We send him our love." Co-hosts Michael Strahan and Howie Long also expressed their concern, with Strahan humorously clarifying, "He didn't decide to go home. We sent him home. Let that be known."
Bradshaw took to Instagram to update his followers, writing, “Just in case you notice, won’t be on Fox today. Just have a cold. All good.” This message was met with an outpouring of support from fans, who expressed their well wishes in the comments.
Background & Context
Terry Bradshaw has been a prominent figure in NFL broadcasting since the inception of FOX NFL Sunday in 1994. His career as a quarterback spanned 14 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he led the team to four Super Bowl victories and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1989. Despite his successful career, Bradshaw has faced health challenges in recent years, including battles with bladder cancer in 2021 and Merkel cell skin cancer in 2022.
Criticism & Opposition
While the incident primarily drew concern and support, it also highlighted the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Bradshaw's health. Some fans expressed anxiety over his previous health issues, fearing that his absence might indicate more serious underlying problems. Comments on social media reflected this sentiment, with one fan stating, "I about sunk to my feet when I saw you were missing today!"
What's Next
As Bradshaw recovers from his cold, he is expected to return to FOX NFL Sunday for the following week's broadcast. His absence has underscored the strong connection he has with fans and colleagues, who eagerly await his return to the show.
Verbatim Quotes
- “You may notice that Terry Bradshaw's not with us. He came to work sick this morning so he decided to go home, not feeling well. We send him our love out there,” — Curt Menefee, Host, FOX NFL Sunday
- “Just incase you notice, won’t be on Fox today. Just have a cold. All good,” — Terry Bradshaw, Former NFL Quarterback
- “He didn't decide to go home. We sent him home. Let that be known,” — Michael Strahan, Co-host, FOX NFL Sunday
- “I about sunk to my feet when I saw you were missing today!” — Concerned Fan
