The Best Athlete Cameos in TV Shows

JJ Watt on 'New Girl'

The former Texans defensive end brought his imposing presence and surprising comedic timing to the loft. His hilarious performance as a love interest for Jess, with his self-deprecating humor and charm, showed that he's more than just a fierce competitor on the gridiron.

Billie Jean King on 'Fresh Off the Boat'

The tennis icon's cameo was an inspiring and poignant moment. As a wise, tennis-loving mentor to a young Eddie Huang, she gave him advice on his future, leaving a lasting impression on him. Her presence underscored her role as a trailblazer and a role model for generations.

Robert Mathis on 'Parks and Recreation'

The Indianapolis Colts star made a fun cameo in an episode focused on a fundraising gala. His presence added a touch of local celebrity, and his charismatic, friendly demeanor made his brief appearance a highlight for fans of both the show and the team.

Detlef Schrempf on 'Parks and Recreation'

The former Pacers forward's cameo was a fan favorite. Schrempf's playful, self-deprecating humor and on-screen charm made his role a perfect fit for the show's quirky vibe, and was a great nod to the city's love of basketball.

Roy Hibbert on 'Parks and Recreation'

The Indiana Pacers center's giant stature was used to great comedic effect. He appeared in an episode about a basketball game and his deadpan humor, as he towered over the other characters, was a perfect match for the show's lighthearted and playful spirit.

Chris Bosh on 'Parks and Recreation'

The NBA All-Star's cameo was part of a star-studded episode featuring several basketball players. He appeared as himself in a hilarious episode, and his presence added a touch of celebrity to the show's chaotic and hilarious world.

John Cena on 'Parks and Recreation'

The professional wrestler and actor made a hilarious, blink-and-you'll-miss-it appearance. His brief cameo was a fun surprise for fans, and his signature swagger and charisma added to the show's long list of memorable celebrity cameos.

LeBron James on 'Entourage'

King James' cameo was a major moment for both the show and the basketball world. His appearance as a high-roller in Hollywood was a showcase of his charisma and star power, blurring the lines between fiction and his real-life ambitions.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar on 'Dave'

This cameo was a hilarious and insightful one, as Kareem played a therapist who helps Lil Dicky with his mental health. His calm demeanor and dry wit were a perfect foil to the rapper's chaotic personality, making for one of the most memorable and unexpected pairings on the show.

Shawn Johnson on 'The Secret Life of the American Teenager'

The Olympic gold medalist gymnast appeared as herself, using her real-life fame and experience to give advice to one of the show’s characters. Her cameo was a welcome touch of real-world authenticity and provided a positive role model for the show's younger audience.

Nick Swisher on 'How I Met Your Mother'

The MLB All-Star made a cameo as a friend of Ted's, providing a funny contrast to the group's chaotic love lives. He was a perfect fit for the show's quirky style, and his appearance was a fun nod to the baseball world for fans of the show.

Thierry Henry and Gary Lineker on 'Ted Lasso'

These two legendary English footballers appear as themselves in a TV segment, praising Ted Lasso and his impact on the game. Their genuine appreciation for his coaching style added a layer of realism to the show, bridging the gap between its fictional world and the real world of professional soccer.

Kobe Bryant on 'Modern Family'

In a dream sequence, Kobe appears as a spiritual mentor to Phil Dunphy. His brief but memorable role as a basketball-loving spirit guide was a touching tribute to the late Los Angeles Lakers legend, blending the worlds of sports and sitcom humor in a very heartfelt way.

David Beckham on 'Modern Family'

The global soccer icon made a brief appearance alongside his wife Victoria Beckham in a celebrity golf tournament. His role was small but impactful, adding a touch of A-list glamour to the show. The cameo was a clever nod to the cultural phenomenon of his family.

Matt Forte on 'The League'

The former running back’s appearance on this fantasy football sitcom was a must-see. He played himself, having to navigate the chaotic and often absurd world of fantasy football players who obsess over his performance, leading to some truly awkward and hilarious interactions.

Lynn Swann on 'Family Matters'

The Hall of Fame receiver's cameo was part of a sports-themed fantasy sequence. Urkel, in his dream, has the opportunity to meet the legendary football player. The episode showcased Swann’s enduring appeal and provided a fun, wish-fulfillment moment for the show’s nerdy protagonist.

Cheryl Miller on 'Living Single'

The basketball star appeared in a memorable episode where she helps out a struggling teammate. Miller's presence brought authenticity to the show’s portrayal of life for four ambitious young Black women in New York City. Her brief but impactful role highlighted her influence as a role model and athlete.

Peyton Manning on 'Modern Family'

Manning's reputation as a lovable goofball translated perfectly to his role as a friendly, but overly-invested neighbor. His intense desire to play catch with Luke Dunphy was a running gag throughout the episode, showcasing his comedic chops and ability to poke fun at his own competitive nature.

Kevin McHale on 'Cheers'

The Hall of Fame forward from the Boston Celtics was a natural cameo choice for a show set in Boston. McHale's appearance was a nod to the city’s deep basketball culture, and his interaction with Sam Malone in the iconic bar was a brief, but memorable moment of sports and television worlds colliding.

Jalen Hurts on 'Abbott Elementary'

As a beloved Philadelphia Eagles quarterback, Jalen Hurts' appearance on this mockumentary was a perfect fit, given the show's Philadelphia setting. The school’s staff members' excitement over his presence in the halls provided a genuine and relatable moment, blurring the line between the show's fiction and the city's real-life sports fandom.

Terry Bradshaw on 'Married with Children'

The four-time Super Bowl champion quarterback appeared as himself, a rival of Al Bundy's in the infamous "No Ma'am" men's rights group. The former Pittsburgh Steeler proved to be a natural on screen, delivering lines with a deadpan style that perfectly fit the show's cynical humor.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar on 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air'

Kareem’s towering height and dry wit were on full display in this beloved sitcom. As a guest at a formal dinner, he’s initially mistaken for Will's uncle. The episode culminates in a comedic standoff over a taxi, showing off his surprisingly good comedic timing alongside Will Smith’s chaotic energy.

Bill Russell on 'Miami Vice'

The legendary Boston Celtics center had a surprising dramatic turn in this gritty 1980s crime show. His appearance showed a different side of the basketball great, moving from the court to the streets of Miami. His serious role as a drug lord added an unexpected layer of gravitas to the show's star-studded guest list.

Shaquille O'Neal on 'Curb Your Enthusiasm'

Known for his larger-than-life personality, Shaq's cameo is a classic "Curb" moment. After Larry trips him at a Lakers game, causing him to sprain his ankle, Larry is forced to visit him at his mansion to apologize, leading to a hilariously awkward and cringeworthy interaction that only Larry David could create.

Mike Tyson on 'How I Met Your Mother'

The boxing legend appeared as a surprising guest star in a hilarious episode. He helps a terrified Robin take care of an infant, providing a memorable and surprisingly sweet moment that poked fun at his public persona. His cameo was a perfect example of the show’s clever and unexpected humor.