Iconic and Star WWE interviewer 'Mean' Gene Okerlund dies aged 76- Hulk Hogan Andre the Giant ‘Mean’ Gene wrestling era comes to an end

'Mean' Gene Okerlund dies aged 76

WWE Hall of Famer Eugene Arthur Okerlund, better known by his ring name "Mean" Gene Okerlund, was an American professional wrestling interviewer, announcer and television host. He was best known for his work in the World Wrestling Federation and World Championship Wrestling.

WWE Spokesman on Wednesday 2^nd January 2019  said, “WWE is saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer Gene Okerlund, the most recognisable interviewer in sports-entertainment history, has passed away at age 76.” A cause of death was not immediately available.

Born in December 1942 as Eugene Okerlund, the wrestling interviewer was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006 by Hulk Hogan and was signed to a lifetime contract with WWE.

Mr Okerlund, who underwent kidney transplants in 1995 and 2004, made his final appearance on WWE TV in January 2018 but continued to make personal appearances.

The iconic interviewer was frequently seen on-screen in the 1980s and was famous for his announcing, ringside commentary and conversations with stars including Hulk Hogan. Hundreds of tributes poured in on social media for Mr Okerlund, who wrestler and business executive Triple H called “a voice and soundtrack to an entire era of our industry”.

“Mean Gene I love you my brother,” retired professional wrestler Hulk Hogan wrote.

Steve Austin

@steveaustinBSR

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.

WWE’s Stephanie McMahon added: “Gene Okerlund was an incredibly rare talent. He made everything and everyone better. Thank you Mean Gene for all the incredible memories.

“Our condolences to his family and loved ones.”

“Just heard Mean Gene Okerlund has passed away,” retired wrestler Steve Austin wrote.

“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.”