Tony Romo’s Life: A Family Affair from Cowboys Glory to Television Fame
Tony Romo has spent nearly two decades in the public eye, first as the starting quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys and now as a leading football analyst for CBS. The Cowboys, one of the NFL’s biggest brands, have kept Romo under the spotlight, a trend that has only intensified since he transitioned to television after retirement. Alongside his professional journey, Romo’s family life has also garnered attention, especially given his marriage to a woman with celebrity ties. Here’s a closer look at the Romo family and their connections.
Candice Crawford: Wife and Partner
Candice Crawford, born and raised in Texas, comes from a family of dedicated Cowboys fans, making her union with Romo a fitting match. As a teenager, she participated in the Miss Texas Teen pageants and later attended the University of Missouri, where she studied journalism. In 2008, she earned the title of Miss Missouri USA.
Crawford always aspired to work in sports media, driven by a desire to cover the games she loved. “I remember watching football one night and thinking, ‘I want that job,'” she recalled. Her career began at Dallas-based television stations like KTVT and CW33, where her path crossed with Romo’s. “This was my first job out of college! If it wasn’t for this station, I would not have met Tony,” she shared.
The couple tied the knot in 2011 and now share three children. Reflecting on motherhood, Crawford said, “I knew I’d be a mom at some point… I got married a lot younger than I expected, but I don’t regret it for one moment.” Alongside her family commitments, she runs Hawk + Sloane, a baby spray business.
Tony Romo’s Sons: A Growing Family
The Romos welcomed their first child, Hawkins, in April 2012. “If it’s possible to bring you and your wife closer together, something like this really does,” Tony shared, expressing gratitude for their growing family.
Two years later, they had their second son, Rivers, born in March 2018. Candice described him as a “miniature Tony,” highlighting his innate love for sports. “Rivers, our 2-year-old, out of the womb wanted a ball,” she said.
Their youngest son, Jones, arrived in August 2017. “It’s super exciting,” said Romo, who humorously noted he was “building my own basketball team here.” Family life, with its joys and challenges, has brought the Romos closer together, creating a lively household filled with laughter and sports.
Ramiro Romo Jr.: The Family Patriarch
Tony’s father, Ramiro Romo Jr., had a remarkable journey that began with his service in the Navy in San Diego. After his military tenure, the family relocated to Burlington, Wisconsin, where Ramiro became a carpenter. He instilled strong values in Tony, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and hard work. “I told him, ‘Don’t change. Continue to be the same person you are,'” Ramiro stated.
In his adult years, Tony found a newfound bond with his father through golf, a passion they both share. Ramiro emphasized the importance of spending quality time with children, a sentiment that Tony echoes as he navigates fatherhood.
Joan Jakubowski Romo: A Strong Support System
Tony’s mother, Joan Jakubowski, worked as a cashier at a local grocery store after the family moved to Wisconsin. Her unwavering support has been a cornerstone in Tony’s life. “I’m lucky enough to have two parents that were there when I was growing up,” he remarked. This support system has played a crucial role in shaping his character and career.
The Influence of Grandparents
Romo’s grandparents, Ramiro Romo Sr. and Felicita Romo, significantly influenced his life. Ramiro Sr., who immigrated from Mexico at the age of 16, emphasized hard work and determination. “This is still the country of opportunity, and Tony’s career is proof of that,” he said.
Together with Felicita, who also worked her way up from humble beginnings, they fostered children and contributed to their community. Their legacy is one of resilience and love, instilling pride in Tony about his heritage. “He knows he’s Antonio Ramiro Romo,” Ramiro Sr. added, highlighting the pride Tony’s Hispanic fans feel.
Chace Crawford: The Celebrity Connection
When Tony married Candice, he also became brothers-in-law with actor Chace Crawford, known for his roles in “Gossip Girl” and “The Boys.” Growing up a Cowboys fan, Chace found it surreal to become friends with the team’s star quarterback. He fondly recalled their family traditions during the holidays, noting how much more intense watching games became with Romo in the family.
Chace shared how Tony would often gather family members to break down game plays, showcasing his passion for the sport and his desire to share that knowledge with loved ones.
Tony Romo’s Roots and Reflections
While born in San Diego, Romo considers Burlington, Wisconsin, his true home. He played high school football there and often reflects on the warmth of returning. “I actually find that you can go home again,” he stated, capturing the sentiment of nostalgia and belonging.
Tony Romo’s journey from a celebrated quarterback to a beloved television analyst is intertwined with a rich tapestry of family, tradition, and community. Through triumphs and challenges, the Romo family continues to thrive, embodying the values of love, support, and perseverance.
