The world of professional wrestling and entertainment mourned the loss of Hulk Hogan, a true icon who transcended the squared circle and became a household name. However, controversy has emerged surrounding the 2025 Emmy Awards and their "In Memoriam" segment, leading to criticism from Hogan's former wife, Linda Hogan.
Linda Hogan expressed her disappointment and outrage over what she perceives as a significant oversight: the exclusion of Hulk Hogan from the Emmy Awards' tribute to television personalities who passed away in the preceding year. She believes this omission wasn't accidental, but rather a deliberate act stemming from Hogan's political leanings.
Specifically, Linda Hogan suggests that the Emmys' decision was influenced by Hulk Hogan's vocal support for former President Donald Trump. She emphasizes that while she cannot definitively prove a direct correlation, she finds the exclusion suspect, especially given Hogan's significant contributions to television.
Hulk Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, passed away on July 24th at his Clearwater, Florida mansion at the age of 71. His death marked the end of an era for many wrestling fans and those who grew up watching him dominate television screens. The wrestler’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes and reflections on his impact.
During an interview on Entertainment Weekly, Linda Hogan articulated her concerns, suggesting that Hogan's support for President Trump may have been a factor in the Emmys' decision. She highlighted Hogan's immense popularity and the high ratings he garnered during his wrestling appearances, questioning why such a prominent figure would be overlooked.
"I can't prove that," she stated, "It's just a guess, but they should have named him!" Her words reflect a deep sense of injustice and a feeling that Hogan's legacy was unfairly diminished by the Emmys' decision.
To understand the context of Linda Hogan's claim, it's important to remember Hulk Hogan's active role in the political sphere. He notably spoke at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee the previous year, making a bold statement of support for Donald Trump and his running mate.
Hogan's appearance at the convention was memorable, to say the least. He famously ripped off his shirt to reveal another shirt emblazoned with the names of Trump and his running mate, showcasing his unwavering allegiance and causing quite a stir in the media and among his fans.
Linda Hogan further alluded to an incident on Monday Night Raw, hinting that Hogan's treatment at his last appearance may have played a role in the Emmys' decision. Although she did not provide specific details, her remarks suggest a possible connection between his political stance and how he was perceived by the entertainment industry.
She stated, "I really can't tell you why they left him out… just a guess considering the way he was treated at his last appearance in [WWE]." This statement indicates a belief that Hogan's final interactions within the wrestling world might have contributed to his omission from the "In Memoriam" segment.
It is worth noting that while Hulk Hogan was not featured in the televised "In Memoriam" segment, his name did appear in a more comprehensive video posted on the Emmys website. This detail suggests that the Emmys acknowledged Hogan's passing, but perhaps did not deem him significant enough for the primetime broadcast.
In her reflections on Hogan's passing, Linda Hogan revealed that she was surprised by his sudden death. "I had no idea he would pass away this soon," she wrote. This sentiment underscores the shock and grief experienced by many upon hearing the news of Hogan's passing.
She further expressed that she and others believed Hogan was on the verge of a comeback, adding to the sense of loss and disappointment. "We all really thought he would make a come back! Big surprise. We are all devastated. It’s hitting me so hard."
Linda Hogan also shared that while she hadn't spoken to or seen Hulk in the years leading up to his death, she maintained a connection through their son, Nick. Nick would keep her informed about Hogan's life, and vice versa, allowing them to stay connected despite their separation.
"Nick would tell me things and vice versa," Linda explained. "Just news about life. I still felt .. although broken .. we still were a [family]." This statement highlights the enduring bond that remained between them, even after their divorce.
The news of Hogan's passing has been particularly difficult for Linda to process. "It’s so hard to know he’s just gone," she wrote, conveying the profound sense of loss and the struggle to come to terms with his absence.
She concluded by stating, "I tried to stay strong for Nick … but I’m melting down now. It’s very sad.” This raw and emotional statement reveals the depth of her grief and the challenge of supporting her son through this difficult time.
The controversy surrounding Hulk Hogan's exclusion from the Emmy Awards' "In Memoriam" segment raises important questions about how public figures are remembered and the potential influence of political beliefs on such decisions. While the Emmys have not issued an official statement addressing Linda Hogan's claims, the situation has sparked a debate about fairness, recognition, and the legacy of a wrestling icon.
Hulk Hogan's career was undeniably influential, extending far beyond the wrestling ring. He starred in numerous television shows and movies, becoming a pop culture phenomenon. His absence from the Emmys' tribute has left many questioning the criteria used for inclusion and whether personal opinions played a role in the selection process.
The debate also underscores the growing intersection of politics and entertainment. In an era where celebrities are increasingly vocal about their political views, the potential for bias and exclusion based on those views becomes a significant concern. Whether the Emmys' decision was politically motivated remains a matter of speculation, but the controversy highlights the challenges of navigating such sensitive issues.
Ultimately, the legacy of Hulk Hogan extends beyond awards and accolades. He will be remembered by millions for his charisma, his athleticism, and his contributions to the world of entertainment. While his exclusion from the Emmys' "In Memoriam" segment has sparked controversy, it does not diminish the impact he had on popular culture.
The outpouring of grief and tributes following Hogan's death serves as a testament to his enduring popularity and the indelible mark he left on the hearts of fans worldwide. His absence will be felt by many, and his memory will continue to inspire those who grew up watching him dominate the wrestling ring and television screens.