J.R. Martinez to be Grand Marshall of Rose Bowl Parade
Daytime television actor and war hero J.R. Martinez, the last winner of “Dancing With the Stars,” will be the grand marshal of the Tournament of Roses Parade.
Coverage starts at 11 a.m. ET Monday on ABC.
Martinez, a wounded warrior who became an actor on “All My Children,” said he was speechless about the Rose Parade honor.
“To be able to participate in this iconic American tradition is something I could only imagine,” he said in a statement, echoing the parade’s Just Imagine theme. “I believe everything happens for a reason, and
I’m grateful the events of my life have provided me with the opportunity to share my message of hope and possibility on New Year’s Day.”
Al Roker and Shaun Robinson host NBC’s coverage.
Josh Elliott of “Good Morning America” and Hannah Storm of ESPN will host ABC’s telecast of the parade. The 98th Rose Bowl Game follows at 2:10 p.m. on ESPN. The University of Oregon is playing the University of Wisconsin.