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Passing the barrel: Beloved icon Leon Coffee hands torch to new barrelman for 2025 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Leon Coffee and John Harrison (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is bringing fresh energy to the arena in 2025 with the exciting addition of award-winning barrelman and rodeo clown, John Harrison.

After more than three decades, Leon Coffee, a beloved rodeo icon, is passing the torch (and the barrel) to Harrison, marking the first new barrelman in 31 years.

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“We are excited to have John Harrison join us at RODEOHOUSTON,” said Rodeo president and CEO Chris Boleman. “He has become one of the industry’s finest entertainers, and we are thrilled to introduce him to our guests at RODEOHOUSTON.” He added, “While stepping into the legendary shoes of Leon Coffee in the barrel is no small feat, John is extremely talented, and we’re excited to see what he does at RODEOHOUSTON.”

Hailing from Soper, Oklahoma, Harrison is no stranger to the rodeo world. Known to fans as part of “The Clown Family,” he’s a seasoned performer with a resume boasting 12 appearances at the National Finals Rodeo (NFR), nine PRCA Clown/Barrelman of the Year awards, and eight Comedy Act of the Year titles.

RODEOHOUSTON® proudly announces its new award-winning rodeo clown and barrelman (The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo)

His infectious humor and thrilling acts have earned him fans across the country, and now he’s set his sights on bringing that magic to Houston.

“Becoming a part of RODEOHOUSTON feels like a dream come true!” Harrison shared, reflecting on his new role. “The privilege of following in the legendary footsteps of Leon Coffee is both an honor and a challenge I gladly accept.”

READ MORE: Rodeo Houston’s Leon Coffee will take last barrel ride after 31 years, says he’s focused on making people happy

Leon Coffee himself had a say in the selection process, handpicking Harrison as his successor. “He is the perfect addition to RODEOHOUSTON, and I can’t wait to see what he brings to the arena next year,” Coffee expressed.

Rodeo fans can catch Harrison’s RODEOHOUSTON debut at NRG Stadium on opening night, March 4, 2025. With Harrison’s talent and Coffee’s lasting legacy, this year’s rodeo promises unforgettable memories for all.

RODEOHOUSTON® proudly announces its new award-winning rodeo clown and barrelman (The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo)
RODEOHOUSTON® proudly announces its new award-winning rodeo clown and barrelman (The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo)

About the Author
Holly Galvan Posey headshot

Holly joined the KPRC 2 digital team in March 2024, leveraging her eight years of expertise in blogging and digital content to share her passion for Houston. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring the city's vibrant scenes, all while balancing her roles as a wife and mother to two toddlers.

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