Monument to Texas Spirit: Matthew McConaughey’s ‘Mr. Horns’ Statue Unveiled at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium…
Austin, Texas — In a historic and emotionally charged ceremony that brought together celebrities, Longhorn legends, alumni, students, and fans from all over the world, a statue of award-winning actor and proud University of Texas alumnus Matthew McConaughey was unveiled at the Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium. The bronze statue, aptly titled “Mr. Horns,” stands as a towering tribute not only to McConaughey’s lifelong devotion to the Texas Longhorns but also to his vibrant embodiment of the spirit and culture of UT Austin.
The Rise of ‘Mr. Horns’
McConaughey, a native Texan and 1993 graduate of the university, has long been considered the unofficial ambassador of Longhorn Nation. Whether rallying the crowd at home games, lending his iconic voice to promotional videos, or serving as the university’s Minister of Culture since 2019, his deep connection to UT has made him a fan favorite and an icon in Texas sports culture.
The idea for the statue was first introduced by the UT Board of Regents in early 2024, following a series of student-led petitions and alumni campaigns advocating for the recognition of McConaughey’s impact on the university’s cultural fabric. After nearly a year of planning, sculpting, and anticipation, the statue was finally revealed on a hot June afternoon with the burnt orange crowd roaring in unison: “Hook ‘em!”
The Statue: A Fusion of Art and Spirit
Standing 10 feet tall on a limestone pedestal, the “Mr. Horns” statue captures McConaughey in a moment of passionate cheer, mid “Hook ’em Horns” hand gesture, wearing his signature burnt orange blazer. His face is etched with that unmistakable grin — the same that has become synonymous with both Hollywood charisma and Longhorn fervor.
Sculptor Carolina Frausto, a UT graduate and renowned Texas-based artist, was commissioned to create the statue. In her remarks at the unveiling, she shared, “This isn’t just a statue of an actor — it’s a statue of an idea. Of loyalty. Of identity. Of Texas pride. Matthew McConaughey represents what it means to be All right, all right, all right in your own skin, and unapologetically Texan.”
A Symbol Beyond Football
While McConaughey is often seen rallying the troops on the sidelines of Longhorn football games, his influence goes far beyond the gridiron. As a professor at the Moody College of Communication, where he teaches a popular course on film production, he’s mentored hundreds of students. As an advocate for student mental health and higher education reform, his efforts through the just keep livin Foundation have had a profound impact.
In 2021, he helped fundraise millions for the construction of the new UT Center for Student Wellness. And during the COVID-19 pandemic, McConaughey emerged as a vocal public figure promoting safety and unity in the Lone Star State.
“Matthew is more than a supporter — he’s a builder,” said UT President Jay Hartzell. “He’s shaped the soul of this university in ways most never see.”
The Unveiling Ceremony: A Celebration of Legacy
The ceremony drew over 60,000 spectators, and it wasn’t just a local affair. Longhorn fans flew in from as far as Australia and Brazil to witness the moment. An orchestral rendition of the UT fight song welcomed the crowd as drone footage showed the towering statue from above.
McConaughey arrived in his usual smooth, low-key fashion — aviator sunglasses, burnt orange tie, and that unmistakable swagger. He was accompanied by his wife, Camila Alves McConaughey, and their three children, all of whom beamed with pride.
