Harrison Butker, kicker for the Kansas City Chiefs, recently revealed that he and his wife, Isabelle, have welcomed their third child. Butker made the announcement subtly during an appearance on Fox News last week while speaking in support of Missouri Senator Josh Hawley’s re-election campaign.
In the interview, Butker addressed the backlash he has faced following his controversial commencement speech earlier this year, in which he made comments about the value of women’s roles in the home. During that speech, he stated that a woman’s “most important title” should be “homemaker.” In his latest remarks, he shared how his personal experiences have shaped his perspective.
“I was able to experience my wife, now that we have three children, being able to be present with the children,” Butker said. “I see that amazing bond they have, and I think, ‘Woah. This is so important for our society.’ There’s nothing wrong, there’s nothing shameful if you are a woman and you want to spend time with your family.”
Butker and Isabelle, who have been married since 2018, first became parents in January 2019 when they welcomed their son, James Augustine. At the time, Butker shared the news on social media, writing, “Chiefs Kingdom is happy to have you, little one! Happy birthday.” The couple welcomed a daughter in 2020, although her name has not been publicly shared.
As for the newest addition to the Butker family, details remain scarce. Harrison did not share the baby’s name or birth date during the interview, and he has not posted any further announcements on social media. Isabelle, who maintains a very private profile and does not have public social media accounts, has also kept quiet about their expanding family.
When Harrison and Isabelle walked the red carpet at the 2024 ESPY Awards in June, Isabelle did not appear to have a baby bump, making it unclear when the couple welcomed their third child.
Despite the joy of growing his family, Butker has not escaped criticism for his outspoken views on gender roles, particularly following his controversial speech. The topic even resurfaced at the ESPY Awards, where tennis legend Serena Williams made a pointed remark during her time as host. When her sister, Venus Williams, encouraged the audience to support women’s sports, Serena added, “Except you, Harrison Butker, we don’t need you,” referencing Butker’s earlier comments.
Butker, who was present at the event, responded to the criticism. “Sports are supposed to be the great unifier, and at an event dedicated to celebrating a diverse group of men and women who have accomplished great feats, she used it as an opportunity to disinvite those with whom she disagrees from supporting fellow athletes,” he said following the ESPYs.
In his recent interview with Fox News, Butker further elaborated on his views, clarifying that he never intended to “put down anyone who maybe wants to go get a great education and have a career.” He emphasized that his comments were meant to celebrate the role of women who choose to prioritize their families and raise children.
“It’s more about how beautiful it is for women to maybe step aside and prioritize their family, and spend time with their children,” Butker explained. “A woman’s role as a homemaker should not be diminished, and I know it’s countercultural to speak those values. There’s nothing wrong or shameful if you are a woman and you want to spend time with your family and raise your children.”
While Butker’s comments continue to spark debate, he remains firm in his stance, celebrating the choices of women who prioritize family life. With his focus now on his growing family and the football season ahead, Butker seems ready to face both the joys and challenges that lie ahead.
