The Dallas Cowboys and Pro Bowls share Tony Romo’s name along with his unforgettable smile which now brightens CBS Sports broadcasts. While Romo enjoys a sparkling career as a commentator, his story reveals a deep heritage and modest origins. The CBS broadcaster entered this world as Antonio Ramiro Romo on April 21, 1980, and his heritage extends beyond American football. The NFL star played with the Cowboys for 13 seasons and got 34,183 passing yards, 248 touchdowns with an outstanding 97.1 career passer rating. An undrafted player from 2003 who reached NFL icon status isn’t doing too badly.

Before Romo became known as the face of the “America’s Team,” he was a Wisconsin boy who dreamed big. It was unknown to all that the future four-time Pro Bowler and College Football Hall of Fame inductee, who also became CBS’s golden boy, had a legacy that spanned continents.

What is Tony Romo’s ethnicity?

Tony Romo’s ethnicity is as layered as a good Sunday football spread. His father, Ramiro Romo Jr., is of Mexican descent, while his mother, Joan Jakubowski, brings Polish-German ancestry to the mix. That’s right—Tony’s lineage is a fusion of vibrant cultures, much like his ability to blend play-calling brilliance with an “aw, shucks” humility that fans can’t resist.

Tony’s paternal grandfather, Ramiro Romo Sr., emigrated from Muzquiz, Coahuila, Mexico, to the United States as a teen with nothing but grit and a dream. “I came to this country with very little,” Ramiro Sr. once said. “But I worked hard and was able to provide for my family. This is still the country of opportunity, and Tony’s career is proof of that.” Tony Romo’s Hispanic roots, combined with his mother’s Polish-German heritage, create a unique identity that he wears with pride—though he admits he never picked up Spanish. (But hey, at least Grandpa’s on him about it!)

Despite his global roots, Tony Romo’s upbringing was steeped in classic Americana. From chasing footballs in Wisconsin to breaking records with the Cowboys, he’s a walking example of how diverse cultures can thrive in the melting pot of the NFL. And let’s be real: having a first name like Antonio Ramiro just sounds like it was meant to be called out in the fourth quarter of a close game. Romo was the first Cowboys quarterback to be selected for the Pro Bowl (the NFL’s all-star game) since Troy Aikman in 1996.

Beyond the X’s and O’s, Tony’s ethnicity has resonated deeply with fans, especially those of Hispanic descent. “He has many Hispanic fans who are proud of him and support him,” Ramiro Sr. said. Whether it’s on the field or in the booth, Romo’s background has become a source of inspiration. Because let’s face it, the NFL could always use more diversity—and Tony, with his blended heritage, reminds us of the beauty in that.

Where did Tony’s parents grow up?

Tony’s parents didn’t exactly grow up tossing the ol’ pigskin in NFL stadiums, but their journey is every bit as inspiring. His father, Ramiro Romo Jr., hails from a hardworking Mexican-American family. Ramiro Sr. moved to Racine, Wisconsin, after marrying Felicita Rios Romo, who was born in Robstown, Texas, and raised there before heading north.

Meanwhile, Tony’s mom, Joan Jakubowski, comes from a family of Polish and German ancestry, adding another cultural layer to the mix. Ramiro Sr has often been seen playing golf with his kiddo. “I could beat him early on,” said Ramiro of his son, who made four Pro Bowls in his 12 seasons in Dallas. “But when he got to be a senior in high school and then in college, it was really hard. You can’t teach distance, and he can pound the ball,” he added. And it goes without saying that seeing his father working hard inculcated the same into the CBS golden Boy, as he once stated himself: “Growing up, he [Ramiro Jr.] would leave for work and get home at 5:30. I mean, he’s worked his way up as carpenter, you know, all the way up to superintendent and then project manager. To the end, he’s rooted in hard work. You know he was an old Navy guy, so that’s my dad.”

Growing up, Tony’s household was a blend of cultures and faith. Tony’s sons Hawkins and Rivers received baptism from their paternal grandfather, who served as a deacon in the Catholic Church. Talk about keeping it in the family! Ramiro Sr. experienced both immense pride and proof of the American Dream when he watched his grandson lead the Dallas Cowboys.

Ramiro Sr. expressed his belief in American opportunities while pointing to his grandson’s successful NFL career as evidence. “I’ve always said this is a country of opportunities,” Ramiro Sr. explained, before adding: “Tony’s career is proof of that.” Tony’s journey from an immigrant teenager to Cowboys’ leader seems like a plot from a Hollywood film.

The Romo family prospered in America, but always maintained the connection to their roots. Felicita and Ramiro Sr. made it to every Cowboys home game after relocating to Texas for closer access. He then gave her mom the title of ‘Bookkeeper’, Tony managed to smash NFL records and lead successful playoff runs and now he redefines NFL commentary with the family principles that shaped him.

Where did Tony Romo grow up?

Tony Romo entered the world in San Diego during his father’s Navy service, which led to a rapidly changing early childhood. The Romo family had established residence in Burlington, Wisconsin, by the time he was prepared to pursue his football career. Burlington may not have been like Friday Night Lights, but it served as the foundational place where Tony started building his legacy.

At Burlington High School, Tony emerged as a standout athlete who excelled not only in football but also played basketball and participated in both golf and tennis. He functioned as a multi-tool athlete across high school sports divisions. Although Romo ended his senior year with a 3–6 football record, he received All-Racine County recognition and Eastern Illinois University took notice of him.

At EIU, Tony went from “that undrafted kid” to a record-breaking quarterback into a record-breaking quarterback by winning the Ohio Valley Conference championship and earning the Walter Payton Award in 2002. It was impressive for someone from a small town who grew up admiring Brett Favre.

Being from Wisconsin continued to shape Tony Romo’s identity. His Midwestern toughness was evident in every game during his time as a Cowboy. And while Dallas might have made him a star, Burlington gave him the foundation—and the basketball skills.

Tony achieved Hall of Fame status through his dedication to football even though his parents, grandparents and community played a crucial role in his development. That’s not just a career—it’s a legacy.