A familiar Dodgers face, an actress and an ex-NFL QB: Thanksgiving with the Peetes

Thanksgiving with the Peete Family

Former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete and actress Holly Robinson Peete opened their home for Thanksgiving, sharing a mix of family warmth and advocacy for autism awareness. Their celebration blended football traditions with their ongoing efforts to create understanding and inclusion for individuals with autism.

Family, Football, and Advocacy

The Peete family’s holiday is never just about food and football. For Rodney, who once played in the NFL, Thanksgiving games featuring teams like the Cowboys and Lions evoke deep nostalgia. For Holly, the day carries a dual purpose: celebrating loved ones and spotlighting autism acceptance, inspired by their son RJ, who was diagnosed with autism as a child.

“Every Thanksgiving reminds us how far RJ has come — and how much awareness still matters,” said Holly Robinson Peete.

Career and Connection to Sports

Rodney’s football legacy connects him closely with the day’s biggest televised games, while RJ’s passion for sports keeps that bond alive. The family’s connection to both the Dodgers and professional football shapes a Thanksgiving tradition that centers on togetherness, gratitude, and positive representation.

Giving Thanks Through Advocacy

Beyond their own table, the Peetes use the holiday to champion autism initiatives through their HollyRod Foundation, which provides resources and support for families affected by autism and Parkinson’s disease. Their message each year is one of encouragement — using their platform to remind others of empathy, awareness, and inclusion.

“We just want families who feel isolated to know they’re not alone,” Rodney noted. “Thanksgiving is about connection above all.”

Author’s Summary

Rodney and Holly Robinson Peete’s Thanksgiving blends sports nostalgia, family warmth, and heartfelt autism advocacy, turning a holiday meal into a message of inclusion and hope.

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The New York Times The New York Times — 2025-11-27

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