It was a true honor to sit down with the trailblazing Jayne Kennedy Overton on October 18, 2024. Known for her groundbreaking achievements, Jayne has worn many hats—television personality, actress, model, writer, and most notably, a pioneering sports broadcaster.
In 1970, she made history as the first African American woman to be crowned Miss Ohio USA, later becoming one of the top 10 semi-finalists in the Miss USA pageant. Her talent and charisma paved the way for a vibrant career throughout the 1970s, with guest roles on iconic TV shows like The Six Million Dollar Man, Sanford and Son, Wonder Woman, The Love Boat, Starsky & Hutch, and many more.
Dive into the Q&A below to learn more about this remarkable woman and her incredible journey.
Ruchel: You've had such a groundbreaking career, especially as a pioneering African American woman in sports broadcasting. What was it like breaking barriers in such a male-dominated field, and how did you navigate those challenges?
Jayne: (laughs) Do you have an hour? Oh, my goodness, it was almost impossible. Honestly, I still look back and think, how did I even manage to do it? Everything seemed stacked against me. First, I was a woman stepping into a role in sports broadcasting—a field dominated by men. I wasn’t the first woman to do it; George [Michael] was the first. But when I replaced her, there were a lot of people who didn’t like the idea of a woman in this role. On top of that, I was a Black woman, and there was even more resistance to having a Black female in sports broadcasting.
When I auditioned for the job, the network executives agreed that I was the right fit, but there was a fear that the southern affiliates wouldn’t accept me. If I joined the desk, it would mean having Irv Cross, Jayne Kennedy, and Brent Musburger in the middle—two Black hosts and one white host. That dynamic, at the time, was considered a “problem.” So, they sent my audition tape to the southern affiliates for approval. Eventually, they agreed, but only on the condition that Jimmy “The Greek” Snyder would also be added to the desk, creating a balance of two white hosts and two Black hosts.
Even then, they only gave me a six-week contract instead of the standard full year. During my second week on the job, they were trying to secure an interview with Muhammad Ali, who was preparing for his fight with Leon Spinks. I told them, I could get you that interview. They were shocked. I said, Put me on a private jet, send me to the fight, and I’ll come back with the interview. And that’s exactly what I did.
By the following Monday, they extended my contract for the full year.
The biggest lesson I took from that experience—and the message I want to share—is to always advocate for yourself and know your worth. That confidence and determination are what carried me throughout my entire career. Never let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong.
Ruchel: Throughout your career, you've worn many hats—actress, sports broadcaster, model, and more. Which aspect of your career are you most proud of, and why?
Jayne: I think sports broadcasting is what I’m most proud of because it was almost an impossible achievement. The fact that I was able to break through in such a challenging field means so much to me. Even more importantly, it has inspired so many young women to chase their dreams, no matter what those dreams might be. Whether they’re Brown, Black, Yellow, or White, people see my journey and think, wow, if she can do this, I can too.
I’ll never forget when Oprah once told me that she and Gayle used to sit around the TV every Sunday morning, and every time I appeared on screen, they’d jump up and down, shouting, “People of color on TV!” That moment stuck with me because it reminded me that my work wasn’t just about me.
While many of the other roles I’ve taken on as an actress were personally satisfying, sports broadcasting allowed me to give back in a way that truly made a difference. It wasn’t just about pursuing my dreams—it was about opening doors for others and showing them what’s possible. That’s what I’m most proud of.
Ruchel: This convention brings together fans from different generations who admire your work. How does it feel to engage with fans who have followed your journey for so many years?
Jayne: It’s really funny because this is actually my first time attending one of these shows! I’ve never done this before, and it’s been such a long time since I’ve been active in the industry. Right now, I’m writing my memoir, Plain Jayne, which I started 24 years ago. It’s finally going to be released on May 20, 2025, so this feels like the perfect time to reconnect with fans.
Ruchel: Will you have a book signing event?
Jayne: Absolutely! That’s one of the reasons I’m here. It’s been so incredible to step back into this world and see how much my work still resonates with people. When I hear stories like, “We’re from Cleveland, Ohio, just like you,” or meet fans who jumped on a plane just to get my autograph—it absolutely blows my mind. The love and dedication from fans are so humbling, and I’m grateful for every single moment.
Ruchel: You were a role model for so many women. Who were some of the people who inspired and guided you throughout your journey?
Jayne: This morning, I gave a presentation on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and I spoke about Juanita Moore. She was the star of Imitation of Life, a film released in the 1950s, and she was a Black actress who was nominated for an Academy Award. I’ll never forget when my mom sat me in front of our little black-and-white television in the living room and showed me that movie.
If you’re not familiar with the story, it’s about a Black mother whose daughter is passing as white. There’s a heartbreaking scene where the daughter forgets her umbrella at home, and the mother goes to her school to return it. The school refused to let her in because they didn’t know her daughter was Black. That movie just breaks your heart—it’s so powerful and emotional.
Watching that film taught me something profound: I stand on the shoulders of so many incredible women who made a difference, not just in the film industry but also in addressing societal issues. Women like Juanita Moore and Dorothy Dandridge paved the way for others, and their strength and legacy continue to inspire me.
Now, when people tell me, “Oh my God, Jayne, I stand on your shoulders,” I think of those women who came before me. It’s humbling to know I’m part of that legacy. Passing the baton to the next generation is an honor I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.
Reflection
Jayne Kennedy Overton’s journey is one of resilience, trailblazing achievements, and profound impact. From breaking barriers in sports broadcasting to inspiring countless women with her courage and grace, she has cemented her place as a true pioneer. Her reflections on those who inspired her, such as Juanita Moore and Dorothy Dandridge, highlight the importance of standing on the shoulders of those who paved the way while passing the baton to the next generation.
This Q&A not only sheds light on her remarkable career but also reminds us of the power of perseverance, representation, and using one’s platform to inspire change. Jayne’s story continues to resonate with fans across generations, proving that her legacy is as timeless as it is impactful.
Be sure to Jayne on Instagram to stay updated and attend her upcoming book signing event!
