Crystal Wise
A new award has just been created in honor of acting legend, and still active cowboy, Barry Corbin. The brainchild of the Roundup for Autism, the Barry Corbin Award for Grit and Generosity will be posthumously presented to the family of Keith Maddox on Sept. 21 at the 37th Annual Roundup for Autism.
This event, which is being presented by the Winch Ranch, at River Ranch in the Stockyards, will set the precedent for other recipients in the future.
“This prestigious award recognizes individuals who embody the remarkable qualities of resilience and kindness in their personal and professional lives,” a release read.
This new award acknowledges those who face challenges head-on and continuously contribute to their communities. Recipients of this honor are celebrated for their tenacity and their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact, demonstrating that true grit and generosity that are the “hallmarks of a life well-lived.”
"In addition to being a good friend for many years and a consistent Roundup Celebrity Chair and participant, Barry Corbin has dedicated so much of his time and resources to the Roundup for Autism over the past 37 years. It's only fitting to establish an award in his honor," Bobby Norris, founder of the Roundup for Autism says.
Maddox himself began his tenacious journey on his family's ranch, competing in rodeo events from a young age, turning professional before age 18. After graduating from Eastern Oregon University in 1971, he built a successful career in the western industry with prominent companies like Tony Lama. Maddox established The Best Hat Store in Fort Worth in 1996, and later revived the American Hat Company in 2005, post fire.
"Keith Maddox, for decades, was deeply involved in this event as a board member and sponsor, always the first to offer help in any way he could,” Norris added. “Beyond his contributions to the Roundup for Autism, Keith was a mentor and supporter to hundreds of cowgirls and cowboys, making countless contributions to the rodeo community. It was an honor to call him my friend.”
Corbin’s own legacy includes several prestigious accolades, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in "Northern Exposure." Honored by the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for his contributions to Western films and television, Corbin received lifetime achievement awards from various film festivals and organizations. His versatile acting skills have earned him acclaim for roles in popular TV shows and films such as "Lonesome Dove," "No Country for Old Men," "WarGames," and "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas."
"I am deeply honored that Keith Maddox will be the first recipient of the Barry Corbin Grit & Generosity Award,” Corbin says. “Keith was a tireless supporter of the Roundup for Autism from the beginning, and I loved spending time with him. I always admired Keith for his business sense, and even more for his generosity and dedication to helping others. Keith's contributions left an indelible mark not only in Texas but on the international Western community, and this award is a testament to his enduring legacy.”
