Chiefs’ Harrison Butker Sparks Debate With Bold Views in Commencement Speech

Kansas City Chiefs’ Harrison Butker Faces Backlash Over Comments on Women’s Roles

Harrison Butker, the renowned kicker for the Kansas City Chiefs, ignited a wave of controversy following his commencement speech at Benedictine College in Kansas. The athlete’s remarks directed towards female graduates have sparked a fervent discussion across social media platforms.

During his address, Butker targeted his message toward the women in the audience, stating, “I think it is you, the women, who have had the most diabolic lies told to you.” He elaborated on his viewpoint by suggesting that while some female graduates might pursue successful careers, he believed the majority would find fulfillment in marriage and motherhood. “I can tell you that my beautiful wife Isabelle would be the first to say her life truly started when she started living her vocation as a wife and as a mother,” he added.

Butker has been married to his wife, Isabelle, since 2018, and the couple has two children. Their long-standing relationship began in middle school, where they first met in a band class, with Butker highlighting the significant role his wife has played in his life and success, particularly emphasizing her role as a homemaker.

The couple’s history traces back to their high school days, where they started dating and attended the prom together. Despite attending different colleges—Harrison at Georgia Tech and Isabelle at Rhodes College where she played college basketball—their relationship culminated in marriage in 2018.

Since joining the Chiefs in 2017, Butker has established himself as one of the premier kickers in the NFL. His comments have undoubtedly overshadowed his professional achievements, drawing criticism from those who view his stance on women’s roles as outdated and insensitive.