Erin Andrews’ Dad Shares Heartfelt Pride and Lessons From a Life Together
Erin Andrews and her father, Steve Andrews, sat down for a moving conversation on TODAY with Jenna & Friends, where a pre-recorded segment set the stage by recounting the adversity Erin has faced and the resilience she’s shown throughout her career and personal life. In the studio, Steve offered a tender reflection, saying, “I hope that I have been as good of a dad to her as she’s been a daughter to me,” as he praised Erin’s accomplishments beyond her duties as a FOX Sports sideline reporter.
Steve recounted Erin’s acts of kindness that have left a lasting impression, including anonymously paying for service members at the airport and offering to give up her first-class seat to someone in need. The moment underscored a theme that Erin herself has championed for years: you learn how to lead — and how to care for others — from the example set by your parents.
The interview also touched on the challenges Erin has faced. She was stalked in 2008 when a person secretly filmed her through a hotel peephole, a traumatic experience that helped spark Erin’s advocacy for stronger protections through congressional legislation to aid others in similar situations. Erin’s courage continued to shine when she revealed a cervical cancer diagnosis in 2016; she returned to work just days after undergoing surgery, a testament to her determination and work ethic.
Erin’s personal life has also been marked by resilience. She and her husband, former NHL player Jarret Stoll, navigated years of in vitro fertilization before welcoming a son born via surrogate two years ago, following a miscarriage with a previous surrogate. Steve spoke about the family’s journey with admiration, noting that Erin’s strength in broadcasting — and in life — is something he marvels at every day.
In the interview, Erin cited her father’s influence, describing him as “amazing” and emphasizing that the lessons he and her mother taught her shaped how she handles both triumphs and trials. Steve echoed that sentiment, praising Erin for facing physical and emotional challenges head-on and for using those experiences to fuel her ambitions rather than let them defeat her.
Overall, the public moment offered a warm, personal glimpse into a family that has weathered significant hardship with grace and determination. Erin’s story — from high-profile broadcasting success to battles with stalking and cancer, to a journey toward growing her family — resonates as a message of perseverance, support, and hopeful resilience.
Additional note for readers: The conversation highlighted the importance of family backing in times of adversity and the positive impact Erin has had off the screen, through generosity, advocacy, and advocacy-driven legislation to protect others facing similar challenges. If you’re looking for a takeaway, it’s that strength can be cultivated at home and carried forward into every part of life.