When it comes to the National Football League (NFL), most fans are familiar with Roger Goodell, the league’s commissioner since 2006. However, behind this prominent figure is a remarkable woman—his wife, Jane Skinner. A former broadcast journalist and successful producer, Jane Skinner has been married to Roger Goodell for over 25 years, and she has carved out her own legacy while supporting her husband in one of the most high-profile roles in sports.
This blog explores the fascinating life of Jane Skinner, detailing her career, her family, and her marriage to Roger Goodell.
A Successful Career in Broadcast Journalism
Before becoming known as “Roger Goodell’s wife,” Jane Skinner had already made a name for herself in the world of broadcast journalism. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Skinner attended Northwestern University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in broadcast journalism. Armed with her education and ambition, Skinner quickly climbed the ranks in the media industry.
She began her career as a reporter for local television stations across Minnesota, Maine, and Missouri. Her work caught the attention of Fox News Channel, where she was hired as a correspondent and weekend anchor. At Fox, she co-anchored the popular program Happening Now alongside Jon Scott. Skinner also hosted other shows such as Fox News Live and Sunday Best.
In 2010, Skinner made the surprising decision to retire from her successful career in broadcast journalism. She announced her retirement live on air, stating that she wanted to focus more on her family.
Marriage to Roger Goodell: A Love Story Rooted in Football
Jane Skinner and Roger Goodell first crossed paths at a mutual friend’s wedding. Despite living in different states—Skinner in Milwaukee and Goodell in New York—their connection grew. At the time, Skinner was focused on her career, and marriage was not at the forefront of her mind. However, she was impressed by Goodell’s patience and persistence.
In an interview with the LA Times, Skinner recalled how their love story unfolded. While Goodell was seen as a confirmed bachelor, their conversations about football, and life, brought them closer. The couple eventually tied the knot in 1997, and Goodell’s role with the NFL only expanded from there, culminating in his appointment as commissioner in 2006.
Throughout their marriage, Skinner has been a constant support for Goodell, attending games, NFL events, and award ceremonies by his side. Skinner has mentioned that the NFL Draft is her husband’s favorite event, as it represents a turning point for many young athletes and their families.
Transitioning Behind the Camera: Skinner’s Work as a Producer
Although Skinner left the spotlight in 2010, her connection to the NFL did not diminish. In fact, she turned her attention to producing content related to the sports world, particularly focusing on women in the NFL. Between 2019 and 2022, Skinner served as executive producer for several projects that highlighted the contributions of female professionals in the sports industry.
One notable project was A Lifetime of Sundays, a documentary produced by NFL Network that profiled four trailblazing women in the NFL: Norma Hunt, Virginia McCaskey, Martha Firestone Ford, and Patricia Rooney. Skinner’s work on this project shed light on the importance of these women in shaping the NFL and the sport’s future.
Skinner also produced the podcast and television series Earnin’ It: The NFL’s Forward Progress, which focused on women breaking barriers in football, both on and off the field.
A Family Tied to Politics and Sports
Jane Skinner’s impressive career is matched by her notable family background. She is the daughter of Sam Skinner, who served as the U.S. secretary of transportation and the White House chief of staff under President George H.W. Bush. Growing up in Chicago, sports and politics were central to Skinner’s life. Her father was a dedicated Chicago Bears fan, and the family spent many Sundays at Soldier Field watching games together.
This upbringing not only fueled Skinner’s love for sports but also prepared her for a life in the public eye, especially when she married Goodell, a man at the center of professional football.
Family Life: Raising Twins Outside the Spotlight
Jane Skinner and Roger Goodell are parents to twin daughters, born in 2001. While Goodell and Skinner both live public lives, they have taken care to keep their daughters away from the media spotlight. In contrast to the highly visible roles of their parents, the Goodell twins have maintained a relatively private existence.
In interviews, Skinner and Goodell have been careful to shield their family life from the demands and pressures that come with the NFL. Despite Roger Goodell’s high-profile position, the family keeps a strong sense of privacy, allowing their daughters to grow up out of the public eye.
Conclusion
Jane Skinner is much more than just the wife of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. She is a highly accomplished individual with a career in broadcast journalism and television production. Her life and work have shown that while she supports her husband in one of the most scrutinized jobs in sports, she has her own unique path, and has made a significant impact on the NFL from behind the scenes.
With a successful career, a storied family history, and a marriage that has lasted over two decades, Jane Skinner Goodell continues to inspire those who follow her journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Jane Skinner?
Jane Skinner is the wife of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. She is also a former broadcast journalist who worked for Fox News Channel and has produced NFL-related documentaries.
2. When did Jane Skinner marry Roger Goodell?
Jane Skinner and Roger Goodell got married in 1997 after meeting through mutual friends at a wedding.
3. What is Jane Skinner’s career background?
Jane Skinner is a former broadcast journalist who worked for Fox News Channel as a reporter and anchor. She retired in 2010 to focus on her family.
4. Does Jane Skinner have children?
Yes, Jane Skinner and Roger Goodell have twin daughters, born in 2001.
5. What projects has Jane Skinner produced?
Jane Skinner has produced several projects focusing on women in the NFL, including A Lifetime of Sundays and the Earnin’ It podcast and television series.
