Ed Marinaro Named Tuff TV Celebrity Spokesman

Tuff TV, a multicast television network targeted at men, has named actor and former NFL standout Ed Marinaro as the diginet’s first celebrity spokesman. An NCAA record-setter at Cornell University, Marinaro became an accomplished actor after playing six seasons as running back for the Minnesota Vikings, New York Jets, and Seattle Seahawks.

“Tuff TV is a top multicast network with a proven appeal to guys of all ages,” said Marinaro. “I am impressed by what they have accomplished, and with their vision for the future.  The team at TUFF has a knack for creativity and the industry expertise to grow the network across all media platforms. As a spokesman and actor, it’s exciting to take part in a unique media opportunity like this where I can also help make an impact in the development and production of original content.”

“As a celebrity spokesman, we’re happy to have Ed as our first Tuff Guy,” said Lou Seals, Tuff TV founder -CEO. “His multigenerational appeal as an actor and professional athlete is a perfect fit for our viewers and fans. We have several innovative marketing initiatives planned involving Ed, including new promotions for Tuff TV and the creation of more original programming.”

Among numerous acting roles during his career, Marinaro starred as Coach Marty Daniels on the Spike TV series Blue Mountain State.  He will reprise that role later this year in the film Blue Mountain State: The Rise of Thadland, a motion picture based on the cable show.

Best known early in his acting career for his role in the groundbreaking police drama Hill Street Blues on NBC, Marinaro starred on the Emmy Award winning series for six seasons as Officer Joe Coffey.  He also appeared on a number of other network television series, including Laverne & Shirley on ABC and Sisters on NBC.

Marinaro was runner-up to Pat Sullivan for the Heisman Trophy in 1971, the highest finish ever for an Ivy League player in 20 years.  He set more than 16 collegiate records, and was the first running back in NCAA history to run for 4,000 career-rushing yards, leading the nation in rushing for two consecutive seasons. Marinaro appeared in Super Bowl VIII and Super Bowl IX while playing for the Minnesota Vikings.