Notre Dame football icon Lou Holtz dies at 89

Holtz was known for coaching Notre Dame's Fighting Irish.

Published: March 4, 2026 5:00pm

Updated: March 4, 2026 5:13pm

Iconic college football coach Lou Holtz, who spent 33 years leading teams including the University of Notre Dame's Fighting Irish, died Wednesday in Orlando, Florida, at the age of 89.

Holtz, who was also known for being a friend of President Donald Trump, was surrounded by loved ones and had reportedly entered hospice in January. The football coach's cause of death was not immediately clear.

"We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Lou Holtz," current Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman told NBC News in a statement. "Lou's impact at Notre Dame has gone well beyond the football field. He and his wife, Beth, are respected across campus for their generous hearts and commitment to carry out Notre Dame's mission."

Holtz is survived by his wife Beth, four children, nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. 

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