Brooke Hogan has taken to social media to share a touching tribute to her estranged father, WWE legend Hulk Hogan, following his passing at the age of 71 on July 24. Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, died from cardiac arrest at his home in Florida, leaving behind a complex legacy and a grieving family.
In an emotional Instagram post dated July 29, Brooke expressed her profound love and admiration for her father. “My Dearest Daddy, You were my everything, and I will always be your girl. I am PROUD to be your daughter — for all the love, light, and goodness you brought into this world,” she wrote. Accompanying her heartfelt message were several nostalgic photos of their time together, capturing precious moments from her childhood. She continued, “Thank you for choosing me in this lifetime, and for loving me so deeply. Our bond is eternal. That truth brings me comfort and hope, even in your absence. I love you more than all the stars in the sky, 4LifeAfterLife.”
Brooke’s tribute highlights the complicated nature of their relationship, which had seen a significant estrangement in recent years. In a separate statement, she reflected on the joyful memories they shared, saying, “I will remember watching him build my Barbie dream houses, our jet ski rides, laughing till we cried when no one else got the joke, the way he gave me a love and respect for the ocean, the beach, sunsets, and the beauty God painted into this life.” She expressed that even as she grew older, she always felt like his little girl when wrapped in his embrace.
Brooke also shed light on the factors that led to their estrangement. In a candid Instagram post on July 28, she explained, “We never had a ‘big fight.’ My father and I never ‘fought.’ It was a series of phone calls no one will ever hear, know or understand.” She indicated that during their private conversations, Hulk confided in her about various personal and professional issues, and she tried to be a source of support for him.
Despite the challenges, Brooke feels a connection to her father through her children, twins Oliver Andrew and Molly Gene, one of whom is named after Hulk. “The greatest gift a father could ever give — A love that goes on … long after we’re gone,” she wrote. However, she also noted that the world he left behind felt different from what they had envisioned together.
Brooke recounted her attempts to reconnect with her father, including moving to Florida with her husband, Steven Oleksy, to be closer to him. She accompanied Hulk to several surgeries but sensed a growing distance between them. “Everything started getting covered in a thick veil. It was like there was a forcefield around him that I couldn’t get through,” she said, describing the emotional toll of their disagreements and the disconnect she felt.
Reflecting on their relationship, Brooke concluded, “I know in my heart, I did everything I could. He knew I would run through a burning building for him. And in many ways, along the path of life, I did.” She expressed peace in knowing the depth of her love for him, despite the challenges they faced.
Hulk Hogan’s death has sparked discussions regarding his legacy and the dynamics within the Hogan family. While he was a beloved figure to many wrestling fans, his personal life was marked by several controversies and estrangements, including issues with his ex-wife Linda Hogan and his son, Nick Hogan. Brooke’s revelations provide a glimpse into the complexities of familial relationships, especially under the public eye, and raise questions about how such dynamics affect personal connections.
As fans of Hulk Hogan and Brooke Hogan reflect on this poignant moment, it serves as a reminder of the enduring power of love and the intricate bonds that exist within families, even amidst challenges and misunderstandings.
Overall, Brooke Hogan’s tribute not only honors her father’s memory but also reflects on the universal themes of love, loss, and the quest for understanding within families. As we look ahead, it will be interesting to see how this public reflection influences Brooke’s future endeavors in entertainment and her relationship with her father’s legacy within the wrestling community.