Bryce Harper pushes to recreate iconic “Big Four” photo from the 1980s

Back in 1981, LIFE Magazine published its “Year in Photos” issue and included one of the most iconic photos in Philadelphia history. The picture featured Julius Erving, Tug McGraw, Ron Jaworski, and Pete Peeters on the Art Museum steps.

In the last enjoyable sports year for Philadelphia, all four franchises appeared in championship games that season, leading to the famous photograph.

Over the last several years, numerous fans have pushed for the image to be recreated featuring the top Philly athletes today. That always seemed like a pipe dream, but there might be actual traction now. When we first launched DSGN Tree, we recreated the photo ourselves, featuring Joel Embiid, Bryce Harper, Carter Hart, and Carson Wentz.

Yesterday, Bryce Harper shared the photo on his Instagram story and called out Jalen Hurts, Carter Hart, and Joel Embiid to join him in the picture. Although none of these teams reached their counterparts’ success in 1980, it’s a better time than ever and Harper adding Hurts into the mix over Wentz or another Eagles player shows you the support the 23-year old quarterback has from the best athletes in the city of Philadelphia.

Harper is the reigning NL MVP, Embiid is the best 76ers player since Allen Iverson, both Jalen Hurts and Carter Hart are solidifying themselves as the future of their respected franchises. If we’re talking “Mount Rushmores” of Philadelphia athletes, Harper nailed the list.

Some might doubt Carter Hart and Jalen Hurts, but there will never be a perfect four. Did anyone who’s not a diehard Flyers fan know who Pete Peeters was before I wrote this? Because I certainly didn’t. In fact, I still don’t know and haven’t even spent the time researching who he is but apparently he was the guy

Let’s get the picture taken and hopefully usher in a new era of dominance across the board in Philly sports.

Mandatory Credit: AP Photo