Big Lou is gone. The LA TIMES [1]is reporting: [1]
Albano, who was sent home from the hospital earlier this week and place under hospice care, was 76 years old.
Albano is best known to non-wrestling fans as the father in Cyndi Lauper‘s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun [2]” video. That helped kick off the Rock ‘n Wrestling connection that launched the then-WWF to national prominence in the 1980s.
They’ve got some vid, too, you’ll want to check out.
[3]Lou Albano
76 does seem a mite early for checkout time, but then again, the man looked like the subject for a PSA about heart attacks. In fact, he had one in the late 90’s if memory serves. I guess I’m amazed he lasted as long as he did. Very much the type A personality with some modifications on the model that made him unique, such a person would be hard pressed NOT to be a success. And successful Albano was. Wikipedia: [4]
Louis Vincent Albano[2] [5] (July 29, 1933 – October 14, 2009) was an American [6] professional wrestler [7], manager [8] and actor [9]. With an over-the-top personality and a penchant for boisterous declarations, “Captain” Lou Albano was the epitome of the antagonistic manager that raised the ire of wrestlers and incited the anger of spectators. Throughout his 42-year career, Albano guided 15 different tag teams and four singles competitors to championship gold.[2] [5] A unique showman, with an elongated beard, rubber band facial piercings, and loud outfits, he was the forefather of the 1980s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling Connection [10]. Collaborating with Cyndi Lauper [11], Albano helped usher in wrestling’s crossover success with a mainstream audience. Capitalizing on his success, he later ventured into Hollywood with various television, film, and music projects.
Another true American character, now gone from the scene.