Who is Alan Autry? All About Former Mayor of Fresno

Introduction:

Alan Autry is a former American actor, politician, and football player who gained fame for his roles in various television series and movies.

Who is Alan Autry? All About Former Mayor of Fresno

He was also the mayor of Fresno, California, for two terms from 2001 to 2009. In this article, we will discuss his life and achievements in more detail.

Early Life and Football Career:

Alan Autry was born on July 31, 1952, in Shreveport, Louisiana. He grew up in River Ridge, Louisiana, and later moved to California to pursue a career in football. Autry played college football at the University of the Pacific and later played for the Green Bay Packers and the Los Angeles Rams in the National Football League (NFL).

Acting Career:

After retiring from football, Autry pursued a career in acting. He is best known for his roles in the television series “In the Heat of the Night” and “Grace Under Fire.” He also appeared in movies such as “Pride of Jesse Hallam,” “Southern Comfort,” and “Blue Chips.” Autry’s acting career spanned from 1978 to 2002.

Political Career:

In 2000, Autry ran for mayor of Fresno, California, and won. He was re-elected in 2004, serving a total of two terms until 2009. During his tenure as mayor, Autry focused on reducing crime rates, improving the economy, and addressing homelessness in the city. He also established the Fresno Faith-Based Partnership, a program that encouraged collaboration between the city and faith-based organizations to address social issues.

Autry’s political career was not without controversy. In 2006, he was criticized for comments he made about illegal immigration. Autry suggested that the city should stop providing services to undocumented immigrants and that they should be turned over to immigration authorities. The comments sparked protests and criticism from immigrant rights advocates.

Personal Life:

Alan Autry has been married twice. He married his first wife, Vicky Brown, in 1978, and they have one child together. The couple divorced in 1986. Autry later married his second wife, Kimberlee Autry, in 1989, and they have two children together.

Autry is also known for his Christian faith and has spoken publicly about his religious beliefs. He has written several books, including “The Death of Character: Moral Education in an Age Without Good or Evil” and “A Simple Man’s Devotional: Prayers, Musings, and Meditations for a Meaningful Life.”

Conclusion:

Alan Autry is a former American actor, football player, and politician. He is best known for his roles in the television series “In the Heat of the Night” and “Grace Under Fire.” Autry served as the mayor of Fresno, California, for two terms from 2001 to 2009.

He focused on reducing crime rates, improving the economy, and addressing homelessness in the city. Autry’s political career was not without controversy, particularly over his comments about illegal immigration. He has been married twice and is known for his Christian faith and writings on moral and spiritual topics.