Detroit Lions Announcer Dan Miller Honors Late Wife Cindy with Emotional Tribute During NFL Game
Two weeks after her death from cancer, Miller was recognized by players and coaches, and held up a Crucial Catch card during the game.
Detroit Lions play-by-play announcer Dan Miller paid an emotional tribute to his late wife, Cindy, during the team's game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. Cindy Miller, 63, passed away on October 10 after a battle with cancer. She and Dan Miller shared four children and two grandchildren.
During the NFL's annual Crucial Catch initiative, which focuses on cancer prevention and early detection, Miller was seen holding a tribute card bearing his wife's name. Colleagues in the broadcast booth also held up signs in her honor, a moment that gained traction on social media.
Miller had missed the Lions' game against the Arizona Cardinals on October 11 following his wife's death, with Jason Benetti filling in. Benetti, a Detroit Tigers announcer, acknowledged Miller's loss during the broadcast, calling him "one of the most remarkable people" he had met and a "fantastic voice of the Lions for more than two decades."
Following the Lions' 45-21 victory over the Cardinals, head coach Dan Campbell became emotional while presenting an honorary game ball to Miller. "This ball to Dan Miller and his family," Campbell said, acknowledging the difficult time Miller had endured. "Now I know Cindy's at peace, and we love you, Dan."
Lions quarterback Jared Goff also expressed his condolences, describing Miller as an "important piece of the culture here." Goff added, "His voice is Lions football, and he means a lot to us, he's part of our family."
Cynthia Biondi Miller met her husband, Dan, while she was a Westwood One radio producer. She later became a familiar presence at Lions games, often seated behind the team's bench at Ford Field. Her obituary described her as "charismatic, funny, fearless, and full of life," known for her kindness and loyalty.
Cindy Miller was also remembered for her love of animals, particularly cats, having fostered many throughout her life. She is survived by her husband, four children, and two grandchildren.