It's only January, but Amanda Gorman is already having quite the year. First, she brought the house down with her Hamilton-inspired poem, "The Hill We Climb," at the presidential inauguration of Joe Biden, becoming the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history at only 22 years old. Then her books became bestsellers on Amazon just hours later. And now she's breaking records yet again by taking part in another time-honored American tradition: the Super Bowl.
On Sunday, February 7th, Gorman will become the first poet ever to perform at a Super Bowl, as part of the pregame celebration at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. Before the game's coin toss between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Kansas City Chiefs, Gorman will recite an original poem dedicated to three heroes—teacher Trimaine Davis, nurse Suzie Dorner, and Marine veteran James Martin—that the NFL chose to honor due to their service, leadership and fortitude throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We are honored to recognize these three individuals who represent the best in all of us," said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement. "During this incredibly challenging time in our lives, Trimaine, Suzie, and James have exemplified the essence of leadership, each in their own way. We are grateful for their commitment and proud to share their stories and recognize them during this special moment on Super Bowl Sunday."
Three heroes – Trimaine Davis, Suzie Dorner and James Martin – who served as leaders in their respective communities during the global pandemic will be honored at Super Bowl LV as this year’s Honorary Coin Toss Captains – here’s how they found out about their selection. pic.twitter.com/NvjxcGz1PHJanuary 27, 2021
Gorman became something of a national hero herself on Inauguration Day 2021—her moving words about social change and racial history received widespread praise from fellow crazy-talented folks like Oprah Winfrey, Stacey Abrams, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, whose "Hamilton" hit was notably referenced numerous times throughout the inaugural poem.
Riding the wave of her success, the 22 year old recently signed with IMG Models, a famed talent-management agency that will oversee brand endorsements and editorial opportunities for the rising star. We can't wait to see what she gets up to next.
