It has unfortunately just been confirmed that legendary wrestling announcer Gene Okerlund has passed away. Okerlund worked as a backstage interviewer throughout most of his career, and he has been cited as one of the very best at his craft. Okerlund died at the age of 76, and WWE has already posted a tribute to Gene and his career on their official website. There are no details on the reason for his passing, but he did have a history of health problem, especially in his later years. Nevertheless, fans and wrestlers alike are devastated right now and have mostly been remembering him fondly. Expect more details surrounding this WWE Hall of Famer’s sudden passing to be made available within the next few days or so.
WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer Gene Okerlund, the most recognizable interviewer in sports-entertainment history, has passed away at age 76. https://t.co/DyPiEiVLoV
— WWE (@WWE) January 2, 2019
Gene Okerlund had a career in the wrestling industry that spanned back decades. He first made a name for himself in the AWA before he joined WWE in 1984. During Gene’s time in WWE, he worked as a commentator, host, and ring announcer, but he is perhaps best remembered for working as a backstage interviewer. His interviews with the likes of “Macho Man” Randy Savage, Roddy Piper, and Hulk Hogan have become legendary over the years, and Gene has influenced several broadcasters in WWE who came after him. Gene continued his career in WCW from 1994-2001. He returned to WWE not long after WCW’s closure, and he continued to make occasional appearances for the company, usually for WWE Legends specials.
As noted, “Mean” Gene Okerlund has often been cited as one of the greatest wrestling announcers of all time. Okerlund was recognized for his contributions to the business when he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by Hulk Hogan in 2006. Gene was given his nickname by fellow Hall of Famer Jesse “The Body” Ventura, but he was said to be one of the kindest men in the business. Okerlund’s final onscreen appearance for WWE came during Raw’s 25th anniversary show last January when he interviewed AJ Styles backstage. A ton of wrestlers and fans have been saddened by the news of Gene’s passing, and plenty of tributes to Gene have been posted on social media. Some of the messages have been posted down below.
So sad today to hear of the sudden passing of my dear friend @TheGeneOkerlund
I just saw Mean Gene in North Carolina at WrestleCade.
It’s so true that our tomorrow’s are never guaranteed.
Say hello to Jan, Mean Gene. ?? pic.twitter.com/PQ4ZZGmXnx
— Jim Ross (@JRsBBQ) January 2, 2019
Mean Gene I love you my brother HH
— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) January 2, 2019
Of the very few regrets I harbor in my career, one was never getting to scream “Mean Gene” when answering the queries of a man who presence was larger than life and ingrained in the better memories of my childhood.
RIP Mean Gene.
My condolences to the Okerlund family.
— Samoa Joe (@SamoaJoe) January 2, 2019
A voice of my childhood, and one of the greatest of all time — you will be missed, Gene. ?? https://t.co/15kNprnbRd
— Nattie (@NatbyNature) January 2, 2019
Mean Gene was the voice of millions of childhoods. Mine certainly. An honor to meet him. Condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/krsMtbeNIl
— Florida Man (@WWEBigE) January 2, 2019
Just heard Mean Gene Okerlund has passed away. As an interviewer, pitch man, announcer, or host, he was untouchable. Simply the best. Total professional with quick wit, sarcasm, humor, and that golden voice.
Condolences to his friends and family.
— Steve Austin (@steveaustinBSR) January 2, 2019