Big Lou is gone. The LA TIMES is reporting:
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” 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.
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:
Louis Vincent Albano[2] (July 29, 1933 – October 14, 2009) was an American professional wrestler, manager and actor. 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] 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. Collaborating with Cyndi Lauper, 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.
Tags: BitsBlog, Lou Albano, RIP
October 16th, 2009 at 9:21
wow…I thought it was Ron Jeremy that played Mario…anyways, its one of those people u dont expect to die..mario?!