Granted, John Madden is renowned for his eight-legged Thanksgiving turkey, but it was the introduction of the mighty turducken that truly took the world by storm.
John Madden passed away Tuesday, December 28, 2021. The world was shocked to learn of Madden’s passing, and it brought back many fond memories of the legendary athlete, broadcaster, and video gamer.
Naturally, the first things that come to mind when you think of John Madden are the “Madden” football video game franchise, his NFL coaching career, his love of tough actin Tenactin, his penchant for eight-legged turkeys, and most delectably, you probably remember his unwavering devotion to turducken.
Wikipedia defines turducken as a “dish consisting of a de-boned chicken stuffed into a de-boned duck, further stuffed into a de-boned turkey,” which was created right here in Acadiana. com.
Madden loved turducken so much, there is even an official “All-Madden Turducken” available from goldbelly.com.
John Madden, the legendary NFL coach and commentator, was known for his colorful commentary and eccentric personality. But one of his most iconic Thanksgiving Day traditions was his unique way of carving the turkey. Instead of using a knife, Madden would simply tear the bird apart with his bare hands. This bizarre yet strangely satisfying ritual became a staple of Thanksgiving Day broadcasts, leaving viewers both amused and amazed.
The Origins of the Hand-Carving Tradition
The exact origins of Madden’s hand-carving tradition remain shrouded in mystery. Some speculate that it stemmed from his days as a coach, where he would often grab food with his hands during team meals. Others believe it was simply a way for Madden to add a bit of his own personal flair to the Thanksgiving Day broadcast. Whatever the reason, the hand-carving quickly became a beloved tradition eagerly anticipated by viewers every year.
The Technique
Madden’s hand-carving technique was as unorthodox as it was effective. He would start by grabbing the turkey firmly with both hands, then proceed to tear it apart piece by piece. The process was surprisingly efficient, with Madden effortlessly separating the meat from the bones without damaging the bird’s presentation. His bare hands seemed to possess an uncanny ability to navigate the turkey’s anatomy, leaving behind perfectly portioned pieces of white and dark meat.
The Reactions
Madden’s hand-carving elicited a wide range of reactions from viewers. Some found it to be a hilarious and endearing quirk, while others were grossed out by the lack of utensils. Regardless of their personal opinions, everyone agreed that the hand-carving was an unforgettable part of the Thanksgiving Day broadcast. It was a testament to Madden’s larger-than-life personality and his ability to make even the most mundane tasks entertaining.
The Legacy
John Madden’s hand-carving tradition has become an enduring part of Thanksgiving Day lore. It serves as a reminder of his unique personality, his love for the holiday, and his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. Even after his passing in 2021, the hand-carving continues to be fondly remembered by fans and commentators alike. It is a testament to the power of tradition and the enduring impact of a truly iconic figure.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why did John Madden carve the turkey with his hands?
The exact reason remains unknown, but it is speculated to be a combination of his coaching days and his desire to add a personal touch to the Thanksgiving Day broadcast.
- Was the hand-carving effective?
Surprisingly, yes. Madden’s technique was efficient and resulted in perfectly portioned pieces of meat.
- What were the reactions to the hand-carving?
Reactions varied from amusement to disgust, but everyone agreed that it was an unforgettable part of the broadcast.
- Is the hand-carving still practiced today?
No, the hand-carving was unique to John Madden and has not been continued by other commentators.
Additional Resources
John Madden’s hand-carving tradition was a bizarre yet beloved part of Thanksgiving Day broadcasts. It was a testament to his unique personality, his love for the holiday, and his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. Even after his passing, the hand-carving continues to be fondly remembered by fans and commentators alike. It is a reminder that even the most mundane tasks can be made entertaining with a little bit of personality and creativity.
John Madden and Turducken
Turducken is one of numerous amazing Cajun dishes to begin right here in Acadiana. The delicious trifecta of mouth-watering meats was one of our best-kept secrets. until John Madden became an evangelist for our wonderful Cajun concoction.
John Madden was introduced to turducken during the Rams vs Saints game on Dec. 1, 1996. Madden professed his love for the Louisiana specialty during the Sants game live on T. V. for the whole country to see.
He reportedly loved the turducken so much that when the game was over, Madden bagged up the leftovers and took them home with him according to goldbelly.com.
Glenn Mistich of New Orleans made the “All-Madden Turducken,” the turducken pictured above, that wonderful night in 1996.
“This is it: Glenn Mistich, the owner, created the original Turducken, which was renowned for being given to broadcaster John Madden prior to the Rams-Saints game on December 1, 1996. Madden fell in love, praising it repeatedly during the broadcast and taking the leftovers home with him. It is a two-day process that involves carefully deboning a turkey that has been stuffed with duck and then chicken. Two layers of sausage stuffing and one layer of cornbread dressing are layered into this official 1997 All-Madden Team dish, which is then expertly tied up. Weighing in at 17 pounds, this New Orleans classic is seasoned and ready for you to roast. “.
Below are a couple of great videos featuring John Madden and the turducken he loved so much.
Oh, and in the first video, watch as Madden cuts the turducken with his hand.