Images(3)

Costume, Performance

Object number2003.50.1 a-c

Manufacturer MCL Designs of New York

Date1980-1987

MediumFabric; Polyurethane foam; Leather(?); Rubber; Paper Mache; Faux fur

Credit LineGift of Robert J. Garritano

DescriptionOvesized yellow and black costume with shoes.DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth (a): 77.75 × 32 × 23 in. (197.5 × 81.3 × 58.4 cm)
Height x Length x Depth (b): 8 × 15 × 8 in. (20.3 × 38.1 × 20.3 cm)
Height x Length x Depth (c): 8 × 15.5 × 8 in. (20.3 × 39.4 × 20.3 cm)
Inscriptions(a)
Text on hat reads: "the / terrible / fan".

Text on front of costume reads: "the / terrible / [trademark symbol] / towel".
Historical Notes"Terrible Fan" costume belonged to Robert Garritano. Inspired by the Terrible Towel, Garritano developed an eight foot costume weighing over 40 pounds. The Fan premiered at Three Rivers Stadium on September 7, 1980. Never sanctioned as an official mascot by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Garritano was given a press pass and the right to move throughout the stands, but not on the field, at Steelers home games. From the time he arrived at the game in his decorated Terrible Fan van until the final whistle sounded, Garritano led cheers, sang, danced, and interacted with fans of the black and gold. Because the Fan was always in character and always in costume, few Steelers' fans knew his true identity until Bob hung up his size 25 shoes in 1987 and retired. The costume was produced by MCL Designs of New York, known for developing several of the Muppets characters as well as other sports mascots such as the Pirate Parrot. Garritano, who spent 32 years in education as a high school teacher, coach, guidance counselor, and principal, also began taking the Fan into regional schools. In his career he offered over 500 school bus safety programs, as well as performing at parties and events.

Related institution Pittsburgh Steelers

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