Friday Night Lights first aired on NBC back in October 2006, much to the joy of football fans everywhere (and by everywhere, we mean the US). The show is centered around a high school football team in Dillon, Texas, based on the novel series by author G. Bissinger’s book. While the show was critically acclaimed, it never reached the ratings we thought it rightfully deserved. The show came to an end in February 2011 after just five seasons, and we wonder: what happened to the group of teenagers and their coaches who took football far too seriously? Keep reading to see what the cast of Friday Night Lights is doing today.
Kyle Chandler | Eric Taylor
Eric Taylor was a firm but fair football coach who was based on the real-life former high school and college football coach, Gary Gaines. Many of the fatherless players look to him as a sort of fatherly figure, but despite his close relationships with many of his star players, he showed no nepotism.
One of Eric’s most defining characteristics is his undying love for his family, which contrasted against the hardened image he created as a football coach. He’s also unfailingly considerate to his fellow Dillon residents, despite their clear hatred of his armchair style of coaching. He led the Dillon Panthers and East Dillon Lions to two state title games in 2006 and 2010, respectively.