Acting

Hugh McElhenny

Hugh Edward McElhenny Jr. electrified professional football as one of the most explosive and elusive halfbacks of the 1950s, earning nickname "The King" for his feared running style and captivating performances that made him to pro football what Elvis Presley was to rock and roll. Born December 31, 1928 in Los Angeles, California, McElhenny attended George Washington High School where he set state records in high and low hurdles, broad jump, and ran 100-yard dash in 9.8 seconds, winning both hurdles and long jump at 1947 CIF California State Meet. After starring at Compton Junior College on undefeated 1948 team winning Junior Rose Bowl, McElhenny transferred to University of Washington where he formed prolific duo with quarterback Don Heinrich. He rushed over 1,000 yards in 1950—last Huskies player achieving mark until 1977—and set school records with 296 rushing yards and five touchdowns against Washington State that still stand today. His celebrated 100-yard punt return against USC in 1951 remains one of program's legendary plays. McElhenny earned first-team All-American honors and set 16 school records including career rushing yards (2,499). San Francisco 49ers selected the 6-foot-1, 195-pound McElhenny ninth overall in 1952 NFL draft. His first professional play was 40-yard touchdown run drawn in dirt because he hadn't learned playbook. That rookie season, McElhenny recorded league's longest run from scrimmage (89 yards), longest punt return (94 yards), and top rushing average (7.0 yards per carry), earning unanimous rookie of year honors. In 1954, McElhenny joined Y.A. Tittle, Joe Perry, and John Henry Johnson forming legendary "Million Dollar Backfield"—the only full-house backfield with all four members eventually enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.