Legendary Coach Lou Holtz Passes Away at 89

Keith Olbermann sparks outrage with disrespectful tweet hours after Holtz's death

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Legendary college football coach Lou Holtz passed away at the age of 89. Shortly after the news broke, former ESPN commentator Keith Olbermann posted a disparaging tweet about Holtz, calling him a "legendary scumbag" due to Holtz's support for former President Trump. Olbermann's tweet was widely condemned, with many calling out his lack of respect and decency in the wake of Holtz's death.

Why it matters

Holtz was a beloved figure in the world of college football, known for his successful coaching career and strong moral character. Olbermann's attack on Holtz's legacy just hours after his passing has been seen as a shocking display of disrespect and political divisiveness, even by Olbermann's own standards.

The details

In 2020, Holtz had spoken out against then-presidential candidate Joe Biden's stance on abortion, stating that the Catholic Church did not condone abortion at any stage of pregnancy. This led to backlash from some Democrats, but Holtz stood firm in his beliefs. After Holtz's death, Olbermann tweeted a dismissive response to a remembrance of Holtz, calling him a "legendary scumbag" due to his political views. This sparked outrage from many who saw it as a cruel and inappropriate attack on Holtz's legacy.

  • Lou Holtz passed away on March 5, 2026 at the age of 89.
  • Olbermann posted his disparaging tweet just hours after Holtz's death was announced.

The players

Lou Holtz

A legendary college football coach who led several programs to success, including Notre Dame, and was known for his strong moral character and outspoken political views.

Keith Olbermann

A former ESPN commentator known for his divisive and controversial political commentary on social media.

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What they’re saying

“Legendary scumbag, yes,”

— Keith Olbermann (Twitter)

“You aren't half the man that Coach Holtz was Coach Holtz death is mourned by many and he had a profound impact on many people you on the other hand have no family no friends and no faith you lead a very miserable existence you suffer from mental illness but because there are no people in your life who care about you you just rant and rave on this site think about it X is all you have in your life that's a tragedy,”

— @Kranepool, Mets blogger (Twitter)

The takeaway

Holtz's passing has highlighted the deep political divisions in the country, with Olbermann's disrespectful tweet serving as a stark reminder of the need for more civility and respect, even in the face of differing political views. Holtz's legacy as a beloved coach and moral leader will endure, while Olbermann's reputation for divisiveness and vitriol continues to overshadow his own career.