Introduction
Michael Jerome Irvin, famously known as “The Playmaker,” is an NFL Hall of Famer whose illustrious career, ventures into acting, and intriguing family dynamics continue to captivate fans. In this extensive feature, we explore topics that include his career-ending injury, filmography, age, children, and his son’s rap persona.
1. Injury – The End of a Legendary Career
Michael Irvin’s career peaked with the Dallas Cowboys from 1988–1999, earning three Super Bowl rings and five Pro Bowl selections. His playing days, however, met a dramatic halt on October 10, 1999, when a tackle against the Philadelphia Eagles resulted in a cervical spine fracture, bringing his 12-year career to an abrupt close.
2. Movies & Television Roles
After football, Irvin ventured into acting and broadcasting. Notable screen appearances include:
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The Longest Yard (2005) as Deacon Moss
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Jack and Jill (2011) – performing as himself
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Guest spots on Criminal Minds (2005), Burn Notice, and others.
He also appeared in reality and talk formats like Dancing with the Stars and entertainment shows where he often played himself.
3. How Old Is Michael Irvin?
Born on March 5, 1966, Michael Irvin is currently 59 years old (as of 2025).
4. Children & Family Life
Michael Irvin is a father of four:
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Myesha: eldest daughter from a previous relationship; Texas Southern University alum and mother to a daughter born in 2020.
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Chelsea: daughter with wife Sandy Harrell; graduated summa cum laude from Howard University in 2018.
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Michael Jr.: born 1997; played college football at Miami and Florida Atlantic University.
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Elijah (rap persona: Tut Tarantino): born 1998, a musician and father to a daughter named Carmen.
5. Son as a Rapper: “Tut Tarantino”
Elijah Irvin, known by his stage name Tut Tarantino, pursued a rap career, prompting public commentary from his father. Michael criticized his son’s rap persona on a segment of Undisputed, noting Elijah’s upbringing in a privileged environment contrasted sharply with the “gangster” image he projected.
Elijah responded gracefully, expressing respect for his father and calling out lyrics that might affect Irvin’s public perception. By mid-2025, the two appeared together in public, including a touching father-son boating outing, signaling reconciliation. Michael Irvin children.
6. Recent Headlines
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In the Netflix docuseries America’s Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys, Irvin revisits his 1996 cocaine arrest, which nearly derailed both his and the Cowboys’ legacy.
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The series also reveals behind-the-scenes decadence of the Cowboys’ 1994 “White House” party house, where players indulged in wild behavior.
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Earlier in 2025, Irvin celebrated his 59th birthday during Rio’s Carnival, posting a glitter-drenched topless video, fulfilling a bucket-list item. Michael Irvin children.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How did Michael Irvin’s NFL career end?
His career ended due to a severe cervical spine injury sustained in a 1999 game against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Q2: What movies and TV shows has he been in?
He acted in The Longest Yard (2005), Jack and Jill (2011), appeared on Criminal Minds, Burn Notice, and Dancing with the Stars, among others.
Q3: How old is Michael Irvin?
He is 59 years old, born March 5, 1966.
Q4: Who are Michael Irvin’s children?
He has four children: Myesha, Chelsea, Michael Jr., and Elijah (Tut Tarantino).
Q5: Is his son really a rapper? What’s the story there?
Yes — Elijah performs as Tut Tarantino. Michael publicly criticized the rap persona as inauthentic given his privileged upbringing, but Elijah maintains respect for his father while pursuing his artistic path. Their relationship appears to be improving.
Q6: What are some recent developments involving Michael Irvin?
He revisited his past legal troubles in a Netflix docuseries, reflected on the Cowboys’ “White House” party culture, and celebrated his 59th birthday during Rio’s Carnival.
Conclusion
Michael Irvin’s story spans more than just sports—it’s a complex narrative of triumph, turbulence, reinvention, and family. His career-ending injury marked the end of an NFL era, but he swiftly pivoted into media and films. At 59, his personal journey continues to evolve, both in the public eye and within his family, including navigating his son’s identity as a rapper.
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