WWE Hall of Famer ‘Mean’ Gene Okerlund Dead at 76

Wrestling Hall of Fame interviewer “Mean” Gene Okerlund, has passed away at the age of 76, the WWE reported Wednesday.

Okerlund came to the world of wrestling when he joined the WWF in 1984 and made his way through the WCW and then the WWE becoming one of the most recognizable faces in wrestling, Awful Announcing reported.

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

“In his early days, ‘Mean Gene,’ as he was named by fellow Minnesotan, Jesse ‘The Body’ Ventura first came to prominence by interviewing the greatest stars of the AWA, including Ventura, Bobby ‘The Brain’ Heenan and Hulk Hogan,” the WWE said in its statement.

“WWE extends its condolences to Okerlund’s family, friends, and fans,” the WWE added.

“Mean” Gene was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006.

Okerlund was last seen on screen in January interviewing WWE Champ AJ Styles.

Several members of the world of wrestling jumped to Twitter to mourn the passing of the great interviewer.

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

A voice and sound track to an entire era of our industry. He was the star of some of @WWE’s most memorable segments. “Mean Gene” was beloved by all who got to work with him. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time. https://t.co/9ddj6372eE

— Triple H (@TripleH) January 2, 2019

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

Follow Warner Todd Huston on Twitter @warnerthuston.