An Honor to Reciprocate the Gesture: Texas Longhorns Erect Statue of Matthew McConaughey, a.k.a. “Mr. Longhorns,” in Tribute to His Support for Horns Nation…
Austin, TX — June 12, 2025
In a moment brimming with burnt orange pride and heartfelt admiration, the University of Texas at Austin has paid the ultimate tribute to one of its most passionate and visible supporters. Today, the Texas Longhorns unveiled a bronze statue of Academy Award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey, affectionately known by fans as “Mr. Longhorns.”
Standing proudly at the entrance to Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium, the larger-than-life monument commemorates McConaughey’s unwavering commitment, energy, and long-standing devotion to Longhorn Nation. It’s a rare gesture — the first time in university history that a statue has been erected for a non-athlete — and a powerful statement of appreciation for a man who has consistently gone above and beyond in support of the Texas Longhorns, their students, and their culture.
A Hollywood Icon With a Texas Heart
Matthew McConaughey’s ties to the University of Texas run deep. Born in Uvalde, Texas, McConaughey graduated from UT Austin in 1993 with a degree in Radio-Television-Film. Long before his meteoric rise in Hollywood with iconic roles in Dazed and Confused, Interstellar, and his Oscar-winning performance in Dallas Buyers Club, McConaughey was just another Longhorn — tailgating with friends, attending football games, and bleeding burnt orange.
But unlike many alumni who go on to find fame elsewhere, McConaughey never forgot where he came from. Over the years, he has transformed from a loyal fan to a campus fixture — a presence felt far beyond the sidelines.
As a frequent motivational speaker for Longhorn athletes, a creative advisor for the university’s film program, and a consistent face on the front row of Texas games — often seen beating his chest or leading “Texas Fight” chants — McConaughey has become an icon of UT spirit. In 2019, he was even named the university’s “Minister of Culture,” an informal role reflecting his impact on student life and school identity.
The Unveiling Ceremony: A Moment of Texas Grandeur
The unveiling ceremony was a Texas-sized event in every sense of the word. Thousands of students, alumni, athletes, and fans flooded the grounds outside the stadium to witness history. Longhorns cheerleaders lined the pathways, the Texas marching band played “The Eyes of Texas,” and burnt orange flags flew high in the summer air.
When the curtain finally dropped, the crowd roared as the nine-foot bronze statue was revealed. Depicting McConaughey in a classic burnt orange blazer — the same one he’s worn at countless games — arms raised and mouth open in a triumphant yell, the statue perfectly captures the energy and spirit of the man known as “Mr. Longhorns.”
University President Jay Hartzell, who spoke at the ceremony, called the tribute “an honor long overdue.”
“Matthew McConaughey embodies everything we want our students and community to aspire to — passion, authenticity, creativity, and an unshakable belief in the power of identity. He’s not just a celebrity alumnus. He’s a Longhorn legend.”
McConaughey’s Reaction: “It’s About the ‘We,’ Not the ‘Me’”
McConaughey, visibly moved by the occasion, addressed the crowd with his signature blend of charm, humility, and Texan bravado.
“Well, alright, alright, alright… I gotta say, this is surreal. I’ve spent years rooting for this university, giving back where I can, and trying to be a positive force. But I never expected to see a statue with my face on it, especially here, on this sacred ground of Darrell K Royal Stadium. But let me say this — this ain’t just about me. This is about what we all represent as Longhorns.”
He continued, his voice growing more passionate:
“The Horns aren’t just a team. They’re a tribe. They’re a culture. And when you believe in something bigger than yourself — when you show up, every time, in every way — that’s when you leave a legacy. This statue is a reminder to all of us: Keep livin’, keep giving, and keep showing up.”
A History of Support
The statue is just the latest chapter in McConaughey’s long history of support for UT Austin. His contributions include:
- Academics: Co-founding the Just Keep Livin’ Foundation and endowing scholarships for film and media students.
- Athletics: Regularly speaking to football and basketball teams before games, providing funding for facilities, and leading morale-boosting efforts.
- Culture: Helping launch the Moody Center arena and influencing school traditions through his role as “Minister of Culture.”
- Philanthropy: Donating time and resources to disaster relief and mental health awareness through UT-sponsored initiatives.
Former head football coach Mack Brown once said, “If you could bottle the energy Matthew brings to this university, you’d power the whole state of Texas for a year.”
A Symbol for the Future
The statue isn’t just about honoring the past — it’s a signal of UT’s future. The university hopes it will inspire generations of students and alumni to give back, stay connected, and embody the Longhorn spirit in whatever field they enter.
Athletic Director Chris Del Conte echoed this sentiment:
“Matthew showed us that you don’t have to wear a jersey to lead a team. He’s shown up for us in ways that go far beyond money or fame. He’s shown up with his heart. That’s why he deserves this spot, right here at the heart of Longhorn Nation.”
The location of the statue — at the northeast entrance of the stadium — was chosen intentionally, so every fan, student, and visitor walking through the gates is reminded of what it means to truly represent Texas.
The Final Word: Burnt Orange Blood
At the close of the ceremony, as the sun set behind the silhouette of McConaughey’s statue, the crowd joined in singing the school song. Some fans wiped away tears. Others clapped and cheered as McConaughey raised his horns one more time.
And etched into the base of the statue, in bold letters beneath his name, is a quote from the man himself:
“Leave your mark, keep your heart — and hook ‘em, always.”
With this statue, the University of Texas has not only honored an icon but crystallized the very spirit that fuels the Horns. It’s a gesture of gratitude, respect, and unity. It’s a declaration that legacies aren’t built only on the field — they’re built in the stands, in the classroom, in the community, and in the unshakable belief that we’re all in this together.
Matthew McConaughey didn’t just support the Longhorns. He became one with them.
#MrLonghorns #HookEmForever #McConaugheyStatue #TexasPride #LonghornLegacy #AlrightAlrightAlrightUT
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