Governor Whitmer Pardons a Turkey Named After Detroit Lions Star

It's an annual tradition to "pardon" a turkey around Thanksgiving season, to give thanks for the hunt and the feasts that we are all about to enjoy thanks to our wildlife. Here in Michigan, it's become a fun tradition to allow the state to submit names for the free bird, usually punny in nature.

Yesterday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer spared the life of a particularly fortunate turkey who is now also drinking the Detroit Lions Super Bowl Koolaid.

The bird has been named Aidan Cluckinson, a nod to Detroit Lions’ defensive star Aidan Hutchinson. The name was submitted by a young Michigander named Valentina who is from South Lyon.

Other names submitted by Michiganders that got an honorary nod from Big Gretch for their Detriot Lions theme were Gobbletron and Cranberry Sanders. (10/10, no notes.)

Aidan Cluckinson is probably strutting confidently, knowing he’s escaped the dinner table and will now live to gobble another day. You have to admit- it’s fitting that the bird shares a name with a player who’s been dodging tackles and making plays all season. While Hutchinson defends the end zone, Cluckinson is busy defending his rightful spot off the dinner plate.

Maybe this blessed turkey will be the good omen Hutchinson needs to get better in time for the Lion's inevitable Super Bowl appearance.

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The tradition of pardoning a turkey is heartwarming, but naming it after a local hero gives it a Michigan twist that’s impossible not to love. Governor Whitmer highlighted the importance of family, gratitude, and community during the event, which drew attention to the season’s spirit while adding a playful Lions-themed flair.

Whether you’re rooting for Hutchinson on the field or Cluckinson in his post-pardon life, this lighthearted tradition reminds us to pause and celebrate what matters most... Great puns.