Kristina Roberts
Hulk Hogan, one of the most famous wrestlers in the world, has passed away at the age of 71. Known for his powerful voice, iconic moustache, and bold red-and-yellow outfits, Hogan was more than just a sports figure—he was a global superstar. His personality, charm, and unique look made him a big name not only in wrestling but also in television and movies across the United States. Many people knew him for his catchphrases, wild energy, and unforgettable roles in movies that shaped pop culture during the 1980s and 1990s.
Hogan’s rise to fame didn’t just happen in the wrestling ring. While he was already a big star in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), now called WWE, he became even more popular when he started acting in movies. His very first film appearance was in Rocky III in 1982. In this movie, he played a larger-than-life wrestler named Thunderlips who fights Rocky Balboa, played by Sylvester Stallone. Though Hogan’s screen time was short, it left a huge impact on fans. The scene was full of action and excitement, and it introduced Hogan’s dramatic style to millions of people all over the world. Stallone once shared that Hogan was so powerful during filming that some of the actors got minor injuries. That shows just how intense and real Hogan was, even when acting.
After that small but unforgettable debut, Hogan started taking on bigger roles. One of them was in the movie No Holds Barred, which came out in 1989. In this film, he played a brave wrestler named Rip who has to face off against a cruel and dangerous opponent named Zeus. Even though the movie didn’t get great reviews from critics, many fans loved it. Over time, it became what people call a “cult classic,” which means it wasn’t a big hit at first but later found a loyal fanbase. Interestingly, the villain Zeus also appeared in actual WWE matches, showing how the movie’s story mixed with real wrestling events. Hogan’s acting helped bring his wrestling world into the movie world, and fans couldn’t get enough.
In the early 1990s, Hogan made a big shift from tough wrestler roles to light-hearted, funny characters in family movies. One of his most memorable films from this time was Suburban Commando. In that movie, Hogan played an alien warrior who crash-lands on Earth and ends up living in a quiet neighborhood. Watching a huge, strong man like Hogan trying to fit into normal suburban life was both funny and heartwarming. It helped show a softer, more lovable side of him. This helped Hogan win the hearts of kids and families who may not have watched wrestling.
Another movie that made Hogan even more popular with younger audiences was Mr Nanny. In this film, he played a wrestler who becomes a babysitter. The story followed Hogan trying to take care of some very naughty kids, all while keeping his tough-guy attitude. The mix of comedy and action made it fun to watch. Children especially enjoyed seeing someone so big and strong act in silly and funny situations. These roles showed that Hogan wasn’t afraid to laugh at himself, and that made fans love him even more.
In 1996, Hogan starred in a Christmas movie called Santa With Muscles. Though many people did not enjoy the film and critics gave it poor ratings, it still became a part of Hogan’s strange and fun journey through pop culture. In this movie, Hogan played a rich man who gets hit on the head and wakes up thinking he is Santa Claus. While some people called it one of the worst holiday movies ever made, others watched it simply because they loved Hogan. His willingness to try different kinds of roles—no matter how silly—proved that he truly loved entertaining people.
Hogan’s presence in pop culture didn’t stop with movies. He also appeared in TV shows, made surprise cameos, and even lent his voice to cartoons. These small appearances helped him stay in the public eye and reminded people of the fun and energetic personality that made him famous in the first place. Whether he was acting or wrestling, Hogan gave his best every time.
His fans will always remember “Hulkamania,” a word used to describe the massive excitement and passion he brought to wrestling and entertainment. His image—blonde hair, bandana, ripped muscles, and shouting catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”—became a part of American culture. Kids wore his shirts, adults cheered for him in wrestling matches, and movie fans laughed and clapped as he played heroes, aliens, babysitters, and even Santa Claus.
Even though Hogan has now left us, his memory lives on through the countless movies, shows, and matches he gave to the world. He wasn’t perfect—no one is—but he made people laugh, cheer, and believe in the power of good winning over evil. His story is about a man who worked hard, stayed bold, and found joy in making others happy. From wrestling rings to movie sets, Hulk Hogan’s journey was truly one of a kind.
Would you like to remember some of Hulk Hogan’s funniest movie scenes? Or maybe re-watch his fight in Rocky III? What was your favorite Hulk Hogan moment growing up?
