Jeff Webb, who became a force in conservative politics after pioneering efforts in the cheerleading world, has died at age 76.
Webb died on Thursday, March 19, after falling and sustaining a traumatic head injury while playing pickleball two weeks prior, according to Cheer Daily. He was hospitalized with his injuries before his family made the decision to take him off life support.
Webb founded Varsity Spirit in 1974, widely regarded as the most influential brand in modern cheerleading. The company’s efforts included competitions and training camps, in addition to apparel and various media ventures.
Varsity Spirit confirmed Webb’s death in a statement on Friday, March 20.
“Jeff played a pivotal role in shaping cheerleading as it exists today and in building a community that has impacted generations of athletes, coaches, and teams,” the statement read. “In recent years, his contributions helped grow the sport both in the United States and globally, including his work with the International Cheer Union, which achieved full recognition by the International Olympic Committee in 2021.”
The statement continued, “We extend our condolences to Jeff’s family and loved ones, and to the many across the spirit community who were influenced by his work.”
Turning Point USA, the conservative political organization founded by the late Charlie Kirk, also honored Webb after his death.
“A visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders and believed deeply in the power of community and country,” the organization said of Webb. “A dear friend to Turning Point USA and Charlie. He will be greatly missed.”
Webb stood with Kirk’s family at the White House when the late political commentator was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in October 2025.
Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah in September 2025. He was 31 years old.
Shortly after Kirk’s death, Webb told Real America’s Voice that “we probably lost a future president.”
“When I first met Charlie he was 24, before he was the Charlie Kirk,” Webb said. “He was already out there, he had Turning Point going. He was starting conferences. He was really still developing the strategy. I met him through a friend at dinner in Atlanta, and like so many people will say about him, we just hit it off.”
Webb continued, “He had everything. He had an incredible amount of charisma. He had a great sense of humor. He was fun to be around.”
In January 2021, Webb announced his new role as co-publisher and senior news editor at Human Events, a conservative news outlet.
