Jonathan Vaughn

Jonathan Vaughn is a former professional football player who served as a running back and kick returner in the National Football League for four seasons (1991 to 1994), playing for the Seattle Seahawks, New England Patriots, and Kansas City Chiefs. In July 2020, Jon bravely revealed that he had been sexually abused by the late University of Michigan physician Robert E. Anderson, following the emergence of multiple allegations earlier that year.

Since then, Jon has become a leading advocate for survivors, working to hold institutions accountable and supporting legislation that would allow victims of Anderson to seek justice. His activism has included high-profile public demonstrations, such as camping outside the University of Michigan President’s residence in 2021. Through Healing Bells, he channels his voice and story into a broader healing journey shaped by art and vulnerability.

“The arts have always been an important part of my healing journey in helping me escape the realities of the trauma I was living through. This show has been a beacon of light in what is sometimes a dark journey toward healing. At this stage in my journey, this production is as important as air is to me for breathing. My goal is to let my vulnerability be the thing that helps even one survivor heal. I hope this production has the impact to change the world.”