AUSTIN, TX — In a monumental tribute befitting a Texas legend, the University of Texas unveiled a bronze statue of Matthew McConaughey—affectionately known as “Mr. Longhorns”—outside the Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium, forever immortalizing the Oscar-winning actor’s unwavering support, spirit, and contributions to the Longhorns athletic program.
With hundreds of fans, students, alumni, and athletes crowding the stadium’s southwest plaza, the air swelled with admiration and nostalgia as university officials pulled back the burnt-orange curtain to reveal the statue—an eight-foot depiction of McConaughey mid “Hook ’em Horns” salute, wearing a classic UT leather jacket and his trademark smile. The likeness captured not just a man, but a symbol of passion that has fueled Longhorns football for over two decades.
University President Jay Hartzell praised McConaughey for being more than a celebrity ambassador. “Matthew has been the heartbeat of this university. He’s shown up—on game days, during tough losses, for community causes, and behind closed doors helping young athletes develop character. This statue is our gesture of gratitude, our way of saying: you are not just of Texas—you are Texas.”
The actor, visibly moved during the ceremony, addressed the crowd with humility and humor. “All right, all right, all right,” he began to thunderous applause. “I’ve cheered from the sidelines, mentored athletes in the locker room, and watched our horns rise and fall. But this—this honor? This is something I never expected. You’ve made me permanent here. You’ve made me bronze!”
Over the years, McConaughey’s impact has reached far beyond appearances at games or motivational locker room speeches. He has served as a visiting professor at the Moody College of Communication, contributed financially to campus initiatives, and maintained active roles in recruitment efforts and university branding.
Notably, it was McConaughey’s emotional pregame speeches and visible passion on the sidelines during Texas’ 2018 Sugar Bowl victory that earned him cult-like status among fans and students alike. As Head Coach Steve Sarkisian recalled, “He didn’t just fire up the team—he inspired a program-wide culture shift. He gave Texas football its swagger back.”
The statue’s base bears an inscription chosen by McConaughey himself: “Bring people together, light the fire, and let it burn.” The piece was crafted by renowned sculptor Glenna Goodacre’s protégé, Tyler Ramsey, who said he aimed to reflect “the eternal optimism and Texas soul” that McConaughey embodies.
As the Longhorns prepare for their debut season in the SEC, the statue stands not only as a tribute to the man who gave his heart to Texas but also as a reminder of the enduring spirit that powers the program. One man, one legacy, and now—one bronze icon on the Forty Acres.