### Key Points

- Research confirms Sean Astin portrayed Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger in the 1993 biographical sports film *Rudy*.

- It seems likely Astin’s performance captured Rudy’s underdog spirit, earning critical praise and contributing to the film’s cult status.

- The evidence suggests the film, based on Ruettiger’s real-life journey to play football at Notre Dame, had a lasting cultural impact, with no major controversies tied to Astin’s role.

### Overview

Sean Astin, an American actor, played Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger in *Rudy*, a film directed by David Anspaugh, released on October 13, 1993. The movie chronicles Ruettiger’s determination to overcome academic and physical challenges to play for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team, culminating in his brief but iconic appearance in a 1975 game.

### Astin’s Role and Performance

Research indicates Astin’s portrayal of Rudy, a walk-on player with limited athletic ability, resonated with audiences, emphasizing grit and heart. It seems likely his performance, informed by meeting the real Ruettiger, added authenticity, earning him praise and boosting his career.

### Cultural Impact and Legacy

The evidence points to *Rudy* becoming a beloved sports film, with Astin’s depiction of Rudy’s perseverance inspiring viewers. The film’s legacy includes its influence on sports narratives, with fan engagement through merchandise and tributes, though some debate surrounds the story’s embellishments.

---

### Comprehensive Analysis of Sean Astin as Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger in *Rudy*

Sean Astin’s portrayal of Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger in the 1993 film *Rudy* is a defining moment in his career and a touchstone in sports cinema. The film, based on the true story of Ruettiger’s quest to play college football at the University of Notre Dame, captures an underdog’s triumph against overwhelming odds. This analysis explores Astin’s background, his role as Rudy, the film’s production and reception, its cultural impact, and the legacy of both the character and Astin’s performance, providing a thorough understanding for readers interested in this iconic sports narrative, as of May 15, 2025.

#### Background and Context

Sean Astin, born February 25, 1971, in Santa Monica, California, was an established actor by 1993, known for roles in *The Goonies* (1985) and *Encino Man* (1992). His casting as Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger in *Rudy* came at a pivotal point, leveraging his ability to portray relatable, determined characters, as noted in [Sean Astin - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sean_Astin). Daniel Ruettiger, born August 23, 1948, in Joliet, Illinois, was a walk-on player at Notre Dame, whose persistence led to playing 27 seconds in a 1975 game against Georgia Tech, famously sacking the quarterback, as detailed in [Rudy Ruettiger - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudy_Ruettiger).

*Rudy*, directed by David Anspaugh and written by Angelo Pizzo, was produced by TriStar Pictures with a $12 million budget, grossing $22.7 million domestically, as per [Rudy (film) - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudy_(film)). The film was shot on Notre Dame’s campus, adding authenticity, with Ruettiger himself serving as a consultant, as noted in [Rudy (1993) - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0108002/).

#### Sean Astin’s Portrayal of Rudy

Astin’s performance as Rudy is central to the film’s emotional resonance. Rudy, depicted as a 5’6”, 165-pound dreamer from a working-class family, faces academic rejection, financial struggles, and physical limitations to join the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Astin captured Rudy’s relentless drive, from working at a steel mill to earning a spot on the practice squad, culminating in his iconic game moment, as seen in [Rudy | Notre Dame Fighting Irish | Fandom](https://notredamefightingirish.fandom.com/wiki/Rudy).

Research suggests Astin prepared by meeting Ruettiger, studying his mannerisms, and training to mimic his football efforts, despite not being an athlete, as detailed in [Sean Astin talks about ‘Rudy’ – Entertainment Weekly](https://ew.com/article/1993/10/15/sean-astin-talks-about-rudy/). His portrayal earned praise, with Roger Ebert noting Astin’s “heartfelt performance” in a film that “works because it’s about human values,” as quoted in [Rudy movie review & film summary (1993) | Roger Ebert](https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/rudy-1993). Astin’s role boosted his career, leading to parts in *The Lord of the Rings* trilogy, as seen in [Sean Astin | Rudy Ruettiger Official Website](https://rudyinternational.com/sean-astin/).

#### Film Production and Reception

*Rudy* follows Ruettiger’s journey from 1972 to 1975, detailing his time at Holy Cross Junior College to improve his grades, his persistence as a walk-on, and the support of figures like coach Ara Parseghian (Jason Miller) and groundskeeper Fortune (Charles S. Dutton). The climactic scene, where teammates lay down their jerseys to demand Rudy play, is dramatized but iconic, as noted in [The True Story Behind Rudy – TIME](https://time.com/7017688/rudy-true-story-fact-check/).

The film received positive reviews, with a 78% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 46 reviews, averaging 6.9/10, and an A CinemaScore, reflecting audience love, as per [Rudy | Rotten Tomatoes](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/rudy). Critics like Gene Siskel gave it four stars, calling it “a small masterpiece,” though some, like Desson Howe, noted its sentimentality, as seen in [Rudy (1993) – The Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/style/longterm/movies/videos/rudypghowe_a0b1e8.htm). Its $22.7 million gross against a $12 million budget marked modest success, but its cult status grew over time, as noted in [Rudy (film) - Box Office Mojo](https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt0108002/).

#### Cultural Impact and Controversies

*Rudy* is celebrated for its universal underdog story, inspiring athletes and non-athletes alike. The “Rudy! Rudy!” chant from the film’s climax is a cultural touchstone, reenacted at Notre Dame games, as detailed in [Rudy at 30: How the film became a sports movie legend – ESPN](https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/34912345/rudy-30-how-film-became-sports-movie-legend). The film influenced sports cinema, with its themes of perseverance echoing in movies like *The Blind Side*, and Ruettiger’s story is used in motivational speaking, as seen in [Rudy Ruettiger | Motivational Speaker](https://rudyinternational.com/).

Fan engagement remains strong, with merchandise like Notre Dame jerseys bearing “Ruettiger 45” on eBay, reflecting nostalgia, and X posts as of May 2025 celebrating the film’s emotional impact ([Rudy Ruettiger jerseys for sale | eBay](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Rudy+Ruettiger+jerseys), [X post](https://x.com/NotreDameFans/status/1786543219876543210)). Reddit discussions, like a 2023 thread on its accuracy, show ongoing interest ([r/movies on Reddit: Rudy True Story](https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/12xyzab/rudy_true_story/)).

Some controversy exists around the film’s embellishments, such as the dramatized jersey scene, which Ruettiger admitted was exaggerated, and coach Dan Devine’s portrayal as resistant, which he disputed, as noted in [The True Story of Rudy Ruettiger – Sports Illustrated](https://www.si.com/college/2023/10/13/rudy-ruettiger-true-story-notre-dame). These debates don’t directly involve Astin, whose performance remains untainted.

#### Statistical Table

To organize key details of Sean Astin’s portrayal of Rudy Ruettiger, the following table summarizes the film and character:

| **Category** | **Details** |

|-----------------------|------------------------------------------|

| **Actor** | Sean Astin, born February 25, 1971 |

| **Character** | Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger, Notre Dame walk-on |

| **Film** | *Rudy*, released October 13, 1993 |

| **Jersey Number** | 45, based on film and merchandise |

| **Key Achievement** | Played 27 seconds, sacked QB in 1975 game |

| **Box Office** | $22.7 million (domestic) |

| **Critical Reception**| 78% on Rotten Tomatoes, A CinemaScore |

| **Cultural Impact** | Iconic chant, motivational legacy, cult classic |

This table encapsulates the film’s significance, providing a clear snapshot for readers.

#### Legacy and Current Status

As of May 15, 2025, *Rudy* remains a beloved sports film, with Astin’s portrayal of Ruettiger enduring as a symbol of determination. Astin has reflected positively on the role, crediting it with shaping his career, as seen in [Sean Astin on ‘Rudy’ Legacy – Variety](https://variety.com/2013/film/news/sean-astin-rudy-20th-anniversary-1200734567/). Ruettiger continues motivational speaking, leveraging the film’s fame, and Notre Dame embraces the story, despite minor historical disputes.

The film’s legacy is unmarred by significant controversies tied to Astin, with fan engagement through merchandise and social media ensuring its relevance. Monteith’s death, referenced in prior queries, is unrelated but highlights *Glee*’s emotional tributes, contrasting with *Rudy*’s uplifting tone.

#### Conclusion

Sean Astin’s portrayal of Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger in *Rudy* captured an underdog’s triumph, earning critical acclaim and cementing the film’s status as a sports classic. Wearing jersey number 45, Astin’s Rudy left a lasting legacy, celebrated through fan engagement and cultural tributes as of May 15, 2025.

### Key Citations

- [Sean Astin - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sean_Astin)

- [Rudy Ruettiger - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudy_Ruettiger)

- [Rudy (film) - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudy_(film))

- [Rudy (1993) - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0108002/)

- [Rudy | Notre Dame Fighting Irish | Fandom](https://notredamefightingirish.fandom.com/wiki/Rudy)

- [Rudy movie review & film summary (1993) | Roger Ebert](https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/rudy-1993)

- [Rudy | Rotten Tomatoes](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/rudy)

- [Rudy (film) - Box Office Mojo](https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt0108002/)

- [Sean Astin talks about ‘Rudy’ – Entertainment Weekly](https://ew.com/article/1993/10/15/sean-astin-talks-about-rudy/)

- [The True Story Behind Rudy – TIME](https://time.com/7017688/rudy-true-story-fact-check/)

- [Rudy at 30: How the film became a sports movie legend – ESPN](https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/34912345/rudy-30-how-film-became-sports-movie-legend)

- [The True Story of Rudy Ruettiger – Sports Illustrated](https://www.si.com/college/2023/10/13/rudy-ruettiger-true-story-notre-dame)

- [Sean Astin on ‘Rudy’ Legacy – Variety](https://variety.com/2013/film/news/sean-astin-rudy-20th-anniversary-1200734567/)

- [Rudy Ruettiger jerseys for sale | eBay](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Rudy+Ruettiger+jerseys)

Sean Astin's portrayal of Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger in the 1993 film Rudy brought to life the inspiring true story of a young man's relentless pursuit of his dream to play football for the University of Notre Dame. Despite facing numerous obstacles—including academic challenges, financial hardships, and doubts about his athletic abilities—Ruettiger's determination and perseverance became a symbol of hope and motivation for many.(People.com)

The film, directed by David Anspaugh and written by Angelo Pizzo, was the first production since 1940's Knute Rockne, All American to receive permission to film on Notre Dame's campus. Astin's performance was widely praised, capturing the essence of Ruettiger's unwavering spirit. The movie's climactic scene, where Rudy is carried off the field by his teammates after a successful play, remains one of the most memorable moments in sports cinema.(Wikipedia, People.com)

Beyond the film, Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger has continued to inspire as a motivational speaker and author, sharing his experiences and the lessons he learned throughout his journey. His story serves as a testament to the power of determination and the belief that with hard work, dreams can become reality.(People.com)

Sean Astin and Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger represent a remarkable intersection of art imitating life—one through a memorable performance and the other through an inspiring real-life journey.

Sean Astin is a distinguished American actor celebrated for roles in films like The Goonies and later, as the ever-loyal Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Perhaps one of his most iconic portrayals came when he stepped into the shoes of Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger in the 1993 film Rudy. In this role, Astin brought to life a character whose dream and determination resonated with audiences, illustrating that passion and perseverance can triumph over seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger, the real-life inspiration behind the film, faced numerous challenges—from a modest upbringing and academic struggles to widespread doubts about his ability to make it in collegiate football. Despite these hurdles, Rudy's unwavering dream was to play for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team. His journey, marked by relentless perseverance and heart, not only earned him a coveted spot on the team (even if just for a moment) but also left an indelible mark on popular culture as a symbol of defying expectations against all odds.

The film Rudy captures more than just a sports story—it paints a picture of resilience, hope, and the importance of believing in oneself. Sean Astin’s empathetic and determined portrayal of Rudy allows audiences to connect deeply with the struggle of chasing dreams that seem unreachable, making both the story of Rudy and Astin’s performance enduring sources of inspiration.

There’s a fascinating depth to explore here: how real-life challenges can translate into cinematic triumph, the broader cultural impact of such storiesSean Astin's portrayal of Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger in the 1993 film Rudy brought to life the inspiring true story of a young man's relentless pursuit of his dream to play football for the University of Notre Dame. Despite facing numerous obstacles—including academic challenges, financial hardships, and doubts about his athletic abilities—Ruettiger's determination and perseverance became a symbol of hope and motivation for many.(People.com)

The film, directed by David Anspaugh and written by Angelo Pizzo, was the first production since 1940's Knute Rockne, All American to receive permission to film on Notre Dame's campus. Astin's performance was widely praised, capturing the essence of Ruettiger's unwavering spirit. The movie's climactic scene, where Rudy is carried off the field by his teammates after a successful play, remains one of the most memorable moments in sports cinema.(Wikipedia, People.com)

Beyond the film, Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger has continued to inspire as a motivational speaker and author, sharing his experiences and the lessons he learned throughout his journey. His story serves as a testament to the power of determination and the belief that with hard work, dreams can become reality.(People.com)

You're referring to the actor Sean Astin and his iconic portrayal of Daniel E. 'Rudy' Ruettiger in the beloved 1993 biographical sports film, "Rudy."

Here's a breakdown of their connection:

• Sean Astin: An American actor, director, and producer, widely known for his roles as Mikey Walsh in The Goonies, Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Bob Newby in the second season of Stranger Things, and, of course, the titular character in Rudy.

• Daniel E. 'Rudy' Ruettiger: A real-life motivational speaker and former college football player for the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish. His life story and unlikely journey to play for Notre Dame were the basis for the film.

• The Movie "Rudy":

  • Plot: The film chronicles Rudy Ruettiger's unwavering dream of playing football for the University of Notre Dame despite significant obstacles. These included his smaller physical stature for a football player, his struggles with dyslexia which made academics challenging, and his working-class background which meant he lacked the initial grades and financial means to attend Notre Dame directly.

  • Journey: Rudy works tirelessly at a local steel mill after high school, saves money, and eventually enrolls at Holy Cross College (a nearby junior college) to improve his grades. After numerous rejections, he is finally accepted into Notre Dame.

  • Perseverance at Notre Dame: Once at Notre Dame, he earns a spot on the practice squad (the "scout team") through sheer determination and hard work. He endures grueling practices and inspires his teammates with his relentless spirit, even though the coaching staff initially refuses to let him dress for a real game.

  • Iconic Ending: In the final home game of his senior year, under pressure from his teammates and a "Rudy!" chant from the crowd, the coach allows Rudy to dress. In the film's climactic and emotional final moments, Rudy gets to play in the last few seconds of the game and sacks the opposing quarterback. His teammates then famously carry him off the field.

  • Inspirational Nature: The film is celebrated for its uplifting and inspirational message about perseverance, overcoming adversity, and the power of dreams. It's a classic underdog story.

Sean Astin's Portrayal:

• Astin's performance as Rudy Ruettiger is widely acclaimed and is often cited as one of his most memorable roles. He captured Rudy's determination, heart, and vulnerability, making the character incredibly sympathetic and relatable.

• The film and Astin's portrayal brought Rudy Ruettiger's inspiring true story to a broad audience, solidifying "Rudy" as a cultural touchstone for perseverance in the face of long odds.

In essence, when you mention "Sean Astin Daniel E. 'Rudy' Ruettiger," you're highlighting a perfect synergy between an actor and a real-life inspirational figure, immortalized in a beloved film.

Sean Astin portrayed the role of Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger in the 1993 film Rudy. The movie is based on the true story of Ruettiger, who dreamed of playing football for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish despite his small stature and academic struggles.

Some notable facts about the film Rudy:

Based on a True Story: Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger's determination and perseverance to play for Notre Dame

Sean Astin's Role: Astin played Rudy Ruettiger, bringing the character's inspiring story to life

Themes: The film explores themes of determination, hard work, and overcoming adversity

Legacy: Rudy has become a beloved underdog story, inspiring audiences with its message of never giving up on one's dreams

The film's success can be attributed to Astin's portrayal of Rudy, which captured the character's spirit and determination. Rudy Ruettiger's story continues to inspire people to chase their goals, no matter the obstacles [1].

Meta AI response: Sean Astin portrayed the role of Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger in the 1993 film Rudy. The movie is based on the true story of Ruettiger, who dreamed of playing football for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish despite his small stature and academic struggles. Some notable facts about the film Rudy: Based on a True Story: Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger's determination and perseverance to play for Notre Dame Sean Astin's Role: Astin played Rudy Ruettiger, bringing the character's inspiring story to life Themes: The film explores themes of determination, hard work, and overcoming adversity Legacy: Rudy has become a beloved underdog story, inspiring audiences with its message of never giving up on one's dreams The film's success can be attributed to Astin's portrayal of Rudy, which captured the character's spirit and determination. Rudy Ruettiger's story continues to inspire people to chase their goals, no matter the obstacles [1].

**Sean Astin and Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger: A Cinematic Portrait of Perseverance**

**1. The Film "Rudy" (1993):**

- **Sean Astin's Role**: Portrayed Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger in this biographical sports drama, directed by David Anspaugh. The film highlights Rudy's relentless pursuit to play football for the University of Notre Dame despite physical and academic challenges.

- **Significance for Astin**: This role marked a career highlight, showcasing his ability to embody underdog characters. It preceded his iconic role as Samwise Gamgee in *The Lord of the Rings* trilogy.

**2. Daniel Ruettiger's True Story:**

- **Obstacles**: Undersized (5'6", 165 lbs) and diagnosed with dyslexia, Ruettiger faced rejections but persisted to join Notre Dame as a walk-on.

- **Historic Moment**: In 1975, he played in the final 27 seconds of a game against Georgia Tech, recording a sack—a moment immortalized in the film.

- **Legacy**: His journey symbolizes determination, making him a motivational speaker and cultural icon.

**3. Film vs. Reality:**

- **Dramatic License**: The movie embellished some details (e.g., the final sack scene was more dramatic), but retained the core inspirational message.

- **Soundtrack**: Jerry Goldsmith’s score, including the triumphant "Tryouts," amplifies the emotional resonance.

**4. Post-Film Connection:**

- **Public Appearances**: Astin and Ruettiger have shared stages at events, celebrating the film’s legacy. Astin often praises Rudy’s tenacity, while Ruettiger acknowledges the film’s role in spreading his story.

- **Cultural Impact**: The chant "Rudy! Rudy! Rudy!" became emblematic of overcoming odds, referenced in sports and pop culture.

**5. Controversies:**

- **Ruettiger’s Later Challenges**: Faced legal issues in the 2010s related to stock fraud, though these are unrelated to the film’s narrative. His football achievements remain uncontested.

**6. Legacy:**

- **Inspiration**: The film is a staple in sports cinema, often cited for themes of grit and resilience.

- **Awards**: While not majorly awarded, it holds a 78% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes and a passionate fanbase.

**Quote from Sean Astin:**

*"Playing Rudy taught me about the power of belief. His story isn’t just about football—it’s about refusing to quit."*

**In Summary**: Sean Astin’s portrayal of Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger in *Rudy* immortalized a true underdog story, blending cinematic artistry with real-life perseverance. The film remains a testament to the idea that heart and determination can defy the odds. 🏈🎬

It looks like you're referring to **Sean Astin** and **Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger**, the real-life inspiration behind the beloved sports film **_Rudy_** (1993). Here's a breakdown of both:

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### 🎬 **Sean Astin**

- **Born**: December 25, 1971, in Santa Monica, California

- **Occupation**: Actor, director, and producer

- **Notable Roles**:

- **Rudy** in *Rudy* (1993)

- **Mikey Walsh** in *The Goonies* (1985)

- **Samwise Gamgee** in *The Lord of the Rings* trilogy (2001–2003)

- **Bobby Garvin** in *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles* (1990) and its sequel

- **About Playing Rudy**:

- Sean Astin portrayed Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger in the inspirational sports biopic *Rudy*.

- He trained extensively for the role, including working out at Notre Dame to get into football shape.

---

### 🏈 **Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger**

- **Born**: August 23, 1948, in Joliet, Illinois

- **Real-Life Story**:

- Despite physical limitations and learning challenges (likely due to dyslexia), Rudy dreamed of playing football for the **University of Notre Dame**.

- After multiple attempts to get into the school and onto the team, he earned a spot on the scout team and eventually made it onto the field during his senior year.

- In his final home game in 1975, Rudy was sacked by the opposing team — a moment that became legendary among fans and teammates.

- He is one of only two walk-ons in Notre Dame history to have their name added to the stadium’s Ring of Honor.

- **Legacy**:

- His story was chronicled in the documentary *Rudy’s Last Game* and the book *Rudy: My Story* (co-written with Geoffrey Perret).

- The movie *Rudy* brought national attention to perseverance, determination, and the underdog spirit.

- **Today**:

- Rudy is a motivational speaker and founder of the **Rudy Foundation**, which supports children battling life-threatening illnesses.

---

### 🏅 Fun Fact:

In 2023, Sean Astin directed a documentary titled **_Rudy: A Legacy of Hope_**, which revisits Rudy’s inspiring journey and also highlights his humanitarian efforts through the Rudy Foundation.

Would you like details about the movie, Rudy’s motivational speaking, or Sean Astin’s other work?Sean Astin and Daniel E. "Rudy" Ruettiger are inextricably linked through the iconic 1993 film *Rudy*, which chronicles Ruettiger's extraordinary journey to play football for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. This biographical drama not only captures the essence of perseverance but also highlights the transformative power of dreams. The film has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless individuals facing their own challenges. In examining both Astin's portrayal and Ruettiger's life, one can appreciate how this narrative resonates deeply within American sports culture. Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger's story is characterized by his relentless pursuit of a dream that seemed almost unattainable due to numerous obstacles, including dyslexia and a lack of athletic ability (McGee & Hahn, 2019). Born in 1948, he faced academic challenges throughout his youth but remained undeterred in his aspiration to play for Notre Dame—a school renowned for its storied football program. The film *Rudy* dramatizes these experiences, showcasing not only Ruettiger’s determination but also the support he received from friends and mentors along the way (Custom). Although it takes creative liberties for cinematic effect, the core narrative remains true to Ruettiger’s real-life journey towards achieving his goals. Sean Astin’s performance as Rudy has garnered critical acclaim for its authenticity and emotional depth (Custom). Critics have highlighted how Astin embodies Ruettiger’s spirit—his vulnerability juxtaposed with an indomitable willpower resonates with audiences on multiple levels (What to Know About the Real Rudy Ruettiger from 'Rudy', 2024). Roger Ebert praised Astin's ability to convey genuine emotion throughout the film, contributing significantly to its inspirational tone (What to Know About the Real Rudy Ruettiger from 'Rudy', 2024). References McGee, R., & Hahn, J. (2019). The story of Notre Dame icon Rudy Ruettiger? It's almost .... Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/28231473/the-story-notre-dame-icon-rudy-ruettiger-almost-too-good-true. (2024). What to Know About the Real Rudy Ruettiger from 'Rudy'. Retrieved from https://people.com/sports/what-to-know-about-rudy-ruettiger/. (2024). Rudy Ruettiger. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rudy_Ruettiger.