US wrestler and actor Terry Gene Bollea, better known as ‘Hulk Hogan,’ has died at the age of 71, according to US media outlet TMZ.
Born in Georgia on 11 August 1953, Hogan, famous for his iconic handlebar moustache and bandana, became a world champion in wrestling and gained international fame in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF).
He later continued his wrestling career with World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), adopting the ring name ‘The Super Destroyer.’ Hogan, who is reportedly one of the few wrestlers to have defeated ‘André the Giant,’ remained active in the sport from 1977 to 2015.
His popularity soared, leading to roles in television and films. He appeared, for example, in Rocky III, a 1982 film by Sylvester Stallone.
With his first wife, Linda Claridge, Hogan had two children, Brooke and Nick. The family was also the focus of the reality TV show ‘Hogan Knows Best,’ and his daughter, Brooke, pursued a career in music.
In Autumn 2024, Hogan made appearances at rallies supporting then-presidential candidate Donald Trump and publicly endorsed the Republican.
Little is known about the cause of his death, but according to TMZ, medical services were called to his Florida home on Thursday morning (local time), after he reportedly experienced heart problems.
