Colton Scott Brown-Underwood is a multifaceted American reality television personality and former professional football player whose career has spanned sports and entertainment. He began his athletic journey at Illinois State University, where he excelled as a defensive end for the Redbirds. After going undrafted in 2014, he signed with the San Diego Chargers, showcasing his determination and skill on the field. His time in the NFL included stints on practice squads for the Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders, demonstrating his resilience and commitment to the sport.

Transitioning from sports to reality television, Brown-Underwood gained national attention as a contestant on the 14th season of The Bachelorette. His charisma and authenticity resonated with audiences, leading to his selection as the lead for the 23rd season of The Bachelor. This groundbreaking role made him the first lead in the franchise to come out as gay, marking a significant moment in reality television history and paving the way for greater representation.

In addition to his reality TV success, Brown-Underwood ventured into producing with his Netflix series, Coming Out Colton, which premiered in December 2021. The series highlighted his journey of self-discovery and featured conversations with other prominent LGBTQ+ figures, further solidifying his role as an advocate for the community.

Beyond entertainment, Brown-Underwood is dedicated to philanthropy, founding the Colton Underwood Legacy Foundation to support cystic fibrosis research. His commitment to social causes, combined with his achievements in sports and television, showcases his diverse talents and passion for making a positive impact.