Sam Darnold's Grandfather, Dick Hammer, Was a Legendary LA Figure

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Dick Hammer, the grandfather of Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, was a legendary figure in Los Angeles. Hammer competed on the U.S. men's volleyball team at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, where he helped the Americans win their first-ever Olympic volleyball match. He later became a firefighter, actor, and even the iconic Marlboro Man in a series of cigarette commercials in the 1970s. Despite his many accomplishments, Hammer remained grounded in his Long Beach roots, and his larger-than-life persona has continued to captivate those who know of his exploits, especially as his grandson Sam Darnold prepares to play in the Super Bowl.

Why it matters

Dick Hammer's life story is a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and culture of Southern California. As a multi-talented athlete, public servant, and celebrity, Hammer embodied the spirit of Los Angeles in the mid-20th century, paving the way for his grandson Sam Darnold's own athletic success. Hammer's legacy continues to resonate, especially as Darnold reaches the pinnacle of his NFL career.

The details

Hammer first made his mark as a standout basketball player at the University of Southern California in the 1950s, helping the team reach the NCAA tournament's Final Four. He later became a firefighter, rising to the rank of captain at the Universal Studios fire department. Hammer also found success as an actor, appearing in the TV series "Emergency!" and serving as the iconic Marlboro Man in a series of cigarette commercials throughout the 1970s. Despite his fame, Hammer remained grounded in his Long Beach community, working to build playgrounds and support local youth.

• In 1950, Hammer was described as "a demon on rebounds and a long-shot artist" while playing basketball.
• In 1954, Hammer helped USC reach the NCAA men's tournament's Final Four.
• In 1964, Hammer competed on the U.S. men's volleyball team at the Tokyo Olympics, where the Americans won their first-ever Olympic volleyball match.
• In the early 1970s, Hammer appeared as Capt. Dick Hammer on the TV series "Emergency!"
• Throughout the 1970s, Hammer served as the Marlboro Man in a series of cigarette commercials.

What they’re saying

What’s next

If Sam Darnold leads the Seahawks to victory in the Super Bowl, there may be calls to erect a statue honoring his grandfather Dick Hammer's legacy in Los Angeles.