Woody Johnson | |
|---|---|
 Official portrait, 2020 | |
| 66th United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom | |
| In office November 8, 2017 – January 20, 2021 | |
| President | Donald Trump |
| Preceded by | Matthew Barzun |
| Succeeded by | Jane D. Hartley |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Robert Wood Johnson IV April 12, 1947 New Brunswick, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouses | Nancy Sale
(m. 1977; div. 2001)Suzanne Ircha (m. 2009) |
| Children | 5 |
| Parent(s) | Bobby Johnson Betty Wold |
| Relatives | Christopher Johnson (brother) |
| Education | University of Arizona (BA) |
Robert Wood Johnson IV (born April 12, 1947) is an American businessman who is co-owner of the New York Jets and was formerly the United States ambassador to the United Kingdom from 2017 to 2021. He is a great-grandson of Robert Wood Johnson I, and an heir to the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical fortune.
In 2000 he purchased the New York Jets football team for $635 million, the highest price for a New York professional sports team at that time, and is currently the Jets co-owner alongside his brother, Christopher Johnson. The Jets moved to the new Meadowlands Stadium in 2010, sharing it with the New York Giants. During his tenure as owner, Johnson was also part of the NFL search committee for a new commissioner.
A longtime Republican Party donor, Johnson was a supporter of Donald Trump's presidential campaign, and was appointed by Trump to the post of United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Events during his tenure included Britain's exit from the EU and the relocation of the United States embassy in London. His brother Christopher took over Jets operations during his post.
Upon his return in 2021, Johnson resumed his role as chairman. In 2023, he pursued Aaron Rodgers, with the Jets finalizing a trade with the Green Bay Packers in April. In 2022, Johnson made a £2 billion bid for Chelsea F.C. but withdrew from the bidding process later that month.