Guests: Episodes with Hulk Hogan
Born on August 11, 1953, Hulk Hogan (Terry Gene Bollea), popularly known by his ring name, Hulk Hogan, is an iconic American retired professional wrestler. Hogan began wrestling in 1977, rising to worldwide prominence in the 1980s after joining the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) in 1983. He is celebrated as a leading figure in wrestling, holding multiple titles and accolades, and has made significant contributions to the sport, including headlining numerous events and setting viewership records.
WCW and Return to WWE:
After a brief hiatus to explore film and television in 1993, Hogan returned to wrestling with the World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in 1994, where he underwent a significant character transformation and led the influential New World Order (nWo) stable. He made a comeback to WWF in 2002, following its acquisition of WCW, and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 and again in 2020 as a part of the nWo.
Acting and Other Media:
Beyond wrestling, Hogan pursued an acting career, making his debut with a cameo in Rocky III in 1982. He subsequently starred in various films, television shows, and commercials. His popularity also earned him a reality show titled “Hogan Knows Best” and he served as the host for several television programs.
Music and Radio
Musically, Hogan released a CD titled “Hulk Rules” with the Wrestling Boot Band, and has made appearances in numerous music videos. He also featured on radio shows, notably on Bubba the Love Sponge’s radio show and hosted his radio show, “Hogan Uncensored”, on Sirius Satellite Radio.
Business Ventures and Endorsements
Hogan ventured into the food industry, establishing the Pastamania restaurant and endorsing products like the Hulk Hogan Thunder Mixer and the Hulk Hogan Ultimate Grill. In 2012, he launched Hogan’s Beach restaurant in Tampa, followed by Hogan’s Hangout in Clearwater Beach. Additionally, he introduced a web hosting service called “Hostamania” and became a distributor for the multi-level marketing company ViSalus Sciences.
Merchandising:
Hogan’s fame and image have led to extensive merchandising, with over 171 action figures created in his likeness from the 1980s through the 2010s.
He was also honored in various ways, like being named the 2008 King of the Krewe of Bacchus in New Orleans and inducted into the Boys and Girls Club Alumni Hall of Fame in 2018.
