Following his tenure as Governor of Kentucky, John Y. Brown Jr. embarked on a multifaceted career that spanned both politics and business, though not always with the same resounding success he had achieved earlier in his life. While his name remained synonymous with Kentucky and its ambitions, the post-governorship years presented a mix of endeavors and challenges for Brown.
Political Aspirations and Setbacks
After leaving office in December 1983, John Y. Brown Jr.’s political ambitions were far from over. He entered the 1984 Democratic primary race for a U.S. Senate seat in Kentucky. However, this campaign was unfortunately cut short. Just six weeks into the race, Brown withdrew, citing the ongoing effects of a serious heart-bypass surgery he had undergone during his final year as governor. This health issue significantly hampered his ability to campaign effectively and marked an early setback in his post-governorship political career.
Undeterred, John Y. Brown Jr. again sought the Democratic gubernatorial nomination in 1987, demonstrating his continued desire to serve in public office. Despite his previous success as governor, this attempt proved less fruitful. He finished second in the Democratic primary, signaling a shift in the political landscape and perhaps a fading of his once-bright national political star. These political campaigns highlight Brown’s resilience and commitment to public service, even after the challenges of his health and changing political tides.
Business Ventures and Entrepreneurial Spirit
John Y. Brown Jr.’s career was not solely defined by politics. Even during and after his time in office, he remained active in the business world, building upon his earlier success with Kentucky Fried Chicken. In 1969, prior to his governorship, he demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit by acquiring a controlling interest in the Kentucky Colonels of the American Basketball Association (ABA). This venture saw considerable success, with the Colonels winning the ABA league championship in 1975. However, the team ultimately folded when the ABA merged with the National Basketball Association (NBA) the following year, marking a bittersweet chapter in his sports business endeavors.
Brown’s involvement in professional basketball continued when he purchased a half interest in the Buffalo Braves of the NBA, another expansion team. His attempt to relocate the Braves to Louisville, Kentucky, however, faced significant obstacles. Ultimately, in a notable move, Brown and a partner negotiated a deal with the Boston Celtics ownership to swap teams. This controversial decision in Boston, which involved trading away popular players, alienated some loyal fans before he sold the team in 1979. These forays into basketball ownership showcase Brown’s business acumen and willingness to take risks, although not all ventures resulted in sustained success.
Expanding his entrepreneurial portfolio beyond basketball, John Y. Brown Jr. co-founded a roasted-chicken restaurant chain with country music icon Kenny Rogers. Named Kenny Rogers Roasters, the chain grew rapidly to 350 outlets. However, it faced intense competition from established giants like Kentucky Fried Chicken (now known as KFC) and the emerging Boston Chicken chain (later Boston Market). This competitive pressure led Kenny Rogers Roasters into bankruptcy in 1998. Despite this setback, the brand was later acquired by Nathan’s Famous, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the concept even after financial difficulties.
Conclusion
John Y. Brown Jr.’s life after his governorship was marked by a combination of political aspirations and diverse business ventures. While he faced political disappointments and business challenges, his career reflects a persistent drive and entrepreneurial spirit. From fast food to basketball and restaurants, John Y. Brown Jr. remained a prominent figure in Kentucky and American business, leaving a complex and lasting legacy that extends far beyond his single term as governor.
