Emmitt Smith was the face of the Dallas Cowboys for 12 years, but becoming Dancing with the Stars' third-season celebrity champ has made him recognizable in another circle.
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Smith has signed a deal to become a celebrity endorser for Arthur Murray International ballroom dance schools, a position that will see the 38-year-old former NFL running back appear in television commercials, print ads and radio spots. He'll serve as celebrity endorser alongside his wife Pat -- an actress and 1993's Miss Virginia USA -- with both sharing what they believe to be the benefits of learning to dance.
Smith captured Dancing with the Star's third season mirror ball trophy with professional partner Cheryl Burke at the conclusion of the Fall 2006 edition of the reality competition series. The victory catapulted Smith's celebrity status from being known only by football fans into mainstream America's consciousness.
"When Emmitt and Cheryl won the Dancing with the Stars title, people were amazed that a pro football legend could learn to dance, no matter how unlikely it seemed that he could be light on his feet," said Thomas D. Murdock, Arthur Murray International's vice president of marketing and promotions. "That's why we thought Emmitt would be the perfect spokesperson for Arthur Murray Dance Studios. The entire world loved watching Emmitt challenge every stereotype of men and ballroom dancing. When he's on the dance floor, Emmitt moves with style and grace, proving that any man can learn to dance."
Arthur Murray Dance Studios are located primarily in America and Canada, but locations can also be found in Australia, Brazil, Italy, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, South Africa, Japan and Puerto Rico.
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In addition to his role as celebrity endorser for the ballroom dance schools, Smith is also works as ESPN television analyst and runs SmithCypress Partners, a commercial real-estate business. He currently resides in Dallas with Pat and their four children.
About The Author: Christopher Rocchio