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Mary Hart, the longtime former host of Entertainment Tonight, has become one of the most recognizable celebrity supporters of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Frequently spotted sitting behind home plate at Dodger Stadium, Hart has followed the MLB franchise for decades, and her passion for baseball has once again drawn attention during the postseason.
Her appearances in the stands have become part of the Dodgers’ familiar game-day scenery. However, her connection with the team began long before she became a viral sensation during the 2018 World Series.
Who Is Mary Hart? Meet the Former ‘Entertainment Tonight’ Host
Mary Hart is an American television personality best known for hosting Entertainment Tonight for nearly three decades. She left the entertainment news programme in 2011 after 29 years.
Away from television, Hart has maintained a longstanding connection with the Dodgers. She and her husband, film producer Burt Sugarman, have been regulars at the ballpark, with Hart holding season tickets and often sitting directly behind home plate.
How Did Mary Hart Become a Dodgers Superfan?
Hart’s Dodgers story dates back to 1979, when she moved to Los Angeles. She served as a bat girl during a Hollywood Stars exhibition at Dodger Stadium, where she met legendary Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda.
During their conversation, Hart told Lasorda that she enjoyed singing and wanted to perform the national anthem at a Dodgers game. That opportunity arrived approximately 30 days later, helping establish a connection with the franchise that has lasted for decades.
Her relationship with the organization grew beyond simply attending games. In July 2011, the Dodgers honoured Hart at the stadium, recognizing her years of support with a special ceremony and a personalised jersey.
Why Did Mary Hart Go Viral During the 2018 World Series?
Hart became an internet sensation during Game 3 of the 2018 World Series between the Dodgers and the Boston Red Sox. The 18-inning contest provided a memorable backdrop for her playful imitation of Boston closer Craig Kimbrel.
Kimbrel was known for his distinctive pre-pitch stance, which involved bending forward and holding his arms out to the sides. While watching him pitch, Hart mimicked the unusual movement from her seat behind home plate.
The moment attracted widespread attention, with cameras capturing her imitation as the game unfolded. Speaking to MLB.com, Hart explained that she had noticed Kimbrel’s unusual mechanics during the earlier games in Boston and decided to copy his stance.
Her vintage blue Dodgers sweater added to the memorable image, reinforcing her status as one of the team’s most recognisable fans.