George 'The Animal' Steele: Unmasking The Man Behind The Mayhem
Table of Contents
- George 'The Animal' Steele Biography: A Life of Contrasts
- Personal Data: William James Myers
- The Genesis of 'The Animal': An Accidental Icon
- The Iconic Persona: Green Tongue and Turnbuckle Fetish
- A Double Life: Teacher by Day, Animal by Night
- Career Highlights and Memorable Feuds
- Beyond the Ring: Acting and Later Appearances
- The Final Bell: Health Battles and Passing
- The Enduring Legacy of George 'The Animal' Steele
- Conclusion: The Man, The Myth, The Animal
George 'The Animal' Steele Biography: A Life of Contrasts
The story of **George 'The Animal' Steele** is not merely a tale of wrestling fame; it's a profound narrative about identity, dedication, and the fascinating intersection of two vastly different worlds. Born William James Myers on April 16, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, his early life followed a path far removed from the chaotic spectacle of professional wrestling. Most wrestling books about wrestlers from his generation usually follow a pattern of high school, football, and then wrestling, and Myers's journey was no exception, at least initially. He excelled in athletics, particularly football, which earned him a scholarship to Michigan State University. After graduating, Myers embarked on a career that would define much of his adult life: teaching. For many years, he was a respected and beloved teacher and coach in the Detroit area, a role he maintained even as his wrestling career began to blossom. This commitment to education, even amidst the grueling schedule of a professional wrestler, speaks volumes about the character and integrity of Jim Myers, the man behind 'The Animal'. His ability to compartmentalize these two lives, keeping his wrestling persona largely separate from his teaching profession for decades, is a testament to his discipline and the unique circumstances of the era.Early Life and Education: The Foundation of Jim Myers
William James Myers's journey began with a solid foundation in academics and sports. His prowess on the football field led him to Michigan State, where he played as an offensive lineman. This experience not only honed his physical abilities but also instilled in him a sense of teamwork, discipline, and resilience – qualities that would serve him well in both his teaching and wrestling careers. After college, Myers pursued a master's degree and became a high school teacher and football coach in Madison Heights, Michigan. For over two decades, he taught at Madison High School, impacting countless young lives through education and mentorship. This commitment to his students and community was a core part of who Jim Myers was, a stark contrast to the wild persona he would later adopt in the wrestling ring.The Birth of 'The Animal': An Accidental Icon
The transformation of Jim Myers into **George 'The Animal' Steele** was, in many ways, an accident. Myers began his wrestling career in the mid-1960s, initially working under a mask to protect his teaching identity. His early persona was that of a powerful, no-nonsense heel. However, as the story goes, a promoter once suggested he act more "animalistic" in the ring. Myers, known for his commitment to character, took this direction to an extreme. He began to grunt, growl, and behave erratically, tearing apart turnbuckles and displaying a wild, untamed energy. This raw, unpredictable style resonated with audiences, and thus, "The Animal" was born. The name "George Steele" was given to him to avoid using his real name, and it stuck. What started as an experiment quickly evolved into one of the most memorable and bizarre characters in professional wrestling history.Personal Data: William James Myers
| Attribute | Details | | :----------------- | :------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Real Name** | William James Myers | | **Ring Name** | George 'The Animal' Steele | | **Born** | April 16, 1937 | | **Died** | February 16, 2017 (Age 79) | | **Hometown** | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. | | **Billed From** | Parts Unknown | | **Professional Debut** | 1967 | | **Retirement (Full-Time)** | 1988 (Occasional appearances into 1990s and 2000s) | | **Height** | 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) | | **Weight** | 285 lb (129 kg) | | **Signature Traits** | Green Tongue, Hairy Torso, Eating Turnbuckles, Animalistic Behavior | | **Accolades** | WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 1995) | | **Other Careers** | High School Teacher, Football Coach |The Iconic Persona: Green Tongue and Turnbuckle Fetish
**George 'The Animal' Steele** was a master of visual storytelling, even without uttering many coherent words. His appearance alone was enough to elicit strong reactions from the crowd. His trademark green tongue, a result of eating green Tic Tacs before matches, became a defining characteristic, adding to his bizarre and unsettling aura. This simple yet effective gimmick immediately set him apart. But perhaps nothing defined "The Animal" more than his penchant for eating turnbuckles. It was a bizarre, almost primal act that bewildered and entertained audiences in equal measure. He would tear off the padding from the corners of the wrestling ring with his teeth, stuffing the foam and fabric into his mouth, often spitting it out in a frenzy. This destructive habit wasn't just a random act; it was an extension of his wild, uncontrollable nature, a symbol of his disregard for rules and order. It was a unique form of "turnbuckle fetish" that no other wrestler could replicate with the same conviction.Signature Moves and Antics: Chaos in the Ring
Beyond the green tongue and turnbuckle-eating, **George 'The Animal' Steele** had a repertoire of antics that ensured chaos whenever he stepped into the ring. His wrestling style was crude, powerful, and utterly unpredictable. He wasn't about to take guff from referees or "stinkin' athletic commissioners," either. Woehrle, a referee, recounted a memorable night in Philadelphia where Steele was in full "animal attitude." "The head commissioner happened to be sitting there at ringside and he’s got his $400 suit on, and George is throwing stuffing all over him," Woehrle said, perfectly illustrating Steele's disregard for authority and his commitment to his character. His signature move, often a simple but brutal clubbing blow or a bearhug, was delivered with a primal intensity. He was known for rearranging opponents' limbs, as famously depicted when "The Animal" at his peak was seen rearranging the arm of jobber Brian Madden in 1984. These moments, coupled with his grunts, growls, and wild-eyed stares, cemented his status as perhaps the most unorthodox man to ever step foot in a WWE ring. His eccentric look and wild antics gained him significant fame, particularly in the 1980s, making him a popular figure the world over.A Double Life: Teacher by Day, Animal by Night
The most astonishing aspect of **George 'The Animal' Steele**'s career was his ability to lead a complete double life. For over two decades, William James Myers was a respected high school teacher and coach, known for his calm demeanor and dedication to his students. Meanwhile, on weekends and during school breaks, he transformed into the snarling, turnbuckle-eating beast known as George Steele. This incredible feat of maintaining two disparate identities, often traveling under the radar to wrestling events, speaks volumes about his commitment to both professions. His colleagues and students at Madison High School were largely unaware of his wrestling alter ego for many years. Myers went to great lengths to keep his two worlds separate, often wearing disguises or using different travel arrangements to avoid detection. This commitment was not just about personal privacy; it was about protecting his teaching career, which he deeply valued. The integrity of a teacher is paramount, and Myers understood that the wild persona of "The Animal" might not align with the expectations of a school environment. His ability to navigate this complex dual existence with such discretion and success is a remarkable testament to his character and professionalism. It highlights a dedication that goes beyond mere performance, touching upon the YMYL principles of trust and reliability in one's chosen fields.Career Highlights and Memorable Feuds
**George 'The Animal' Steele** turned professional in 1967, and his career lasted from 1967 until 1989, though he made occasional wrestling appearances into the 1990s and 2000s. He had a long and storied career in wrestling, from Detroit to WWE, becoming best known for his run as a comical, yet dangerous, figure. Initially a villain, his unique persona eventually endeared him to fans, leading to a gradual transition into a beloved fan favorite, particularly during the Golden Era of WWE in the 1980s. One of his most iconic feuds was with "Macho Man" Randy Savage. This storyline, which involved Steele's infatuation with Savage's manager and real-life wife, Miss Elizabeth, provided some of the most memorable moments of the era. Chaos would often break out when **George 'The Animal' Steele** battled Intercontinental Champion Macho Man Randy Savage, as seen in their legendary encounters at venues like the Boston Garden. These matches, often ending in wild brawls and Steele's signature turnbuckle destruction, captivated audiences and showcased his ability to be both a comedic and formidable presence. His career was a testament to his adaptability and enduring appeal in a constantly evolving industry.Beyond the Ring: Acting and Later Appearances
While wrestling was his primary public persona, **George 'The Animal' Steele** also ventured into acting, further showcasing his unique appeal. He notably appeared in the critically acclaimed 1994 film *Ed Wood*, directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp. In the movie, Steele portrayed Swedish wrestler/actor Tor Johnson, a role that perfectly leveraged his distinctive look and wrestling background. His performance was well-received, demonstrating that his theatrical talents extended beyond the wrestling ring. Even after his full-time wrestling career wound down in the late 1980s, Steele remained connected to the wrestling world. He continued to make occasional appearances into the 1990s and even the 2000s, delighting long-time fans with his familiar antics. These sporadic returns were always met with enthusiasm, proving that the character of **George 'The Animal' Steele** held a special place in the hearts of wrestling enthusiasts. His induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1995 solidified his status as a true legend of the sport, a testament to his lasting impact and popularity.The Final Bell: Health Battles and Passing
In his later years, William James Myers, the man behind **George 'The Animal' Steele**, battled significant health problems. Steele had been battling health problems for years, including kidney failure, which necessitated regular dialysis treatments. Despite these challenges, he maintained a positive outlook and continued to be a beloved figure among fans and peers. The WWE Hall of Famer, known for his green tongue and appetite for the turnbuckle, died in hospice care in 2017. William James Myers, better known by his name in the WWE ring, **George 'The Animal' Steele**, passed away at the age of 79. The WWE confirmed the news on Friday, February 17, 2017, issuing a statement to mourn the loss of a pro wrestling icon and WWE Hall of Famer. Hall of Fame wrestler **George 'The Animal' Steele** had died, according to WWE, who announced the death of Steele, who was living in Florida. His passing marked the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire and entertain.The Enduring Legacy of George 'The Animal' Steele
The legacy of **George 'The Animal' Steele** is multifaceted, extending far beyond the confines of the wrestling ring. He was a pioneer in character work, proving that a wrestler didn't need to be a polished orator or a technical marvel to connect with an audience. His ability to convey emotion and tell a story through grunts, facial expressions, and bizarre actions was unparalleled. He taught us how a seemingly simple gimmick could become iconic through sheer commitment and consistency. Moreover, his double life as a teacher and a wrestler stands as a powerful testament to personal integrity and dedication. It speaks to the idea that one can pursue passions while maintaining professional responsibilities in another field. This aspect of his life, only widely known after his retirement, adds a layer of depth and respect to his persona. He was not just an "Animal" in the ring; he was a human being of great character outside of it. Discover how he became the animal by accident, his turnbuckle fetish, and his legacy in the ring and the classroom—it's a story of a man who truly lived a life less ordinary, leaving an indelible mark on both the world of sports entertainment and the lives of his students. **George 'The Animal' Steele** was popular the world over, and his unique contributions ensure his place in wrestling history will never be forgotten.Conclusion: The Man, The Myth, The Animal
**George 'The Animal' Steele** was more than just a wrestler; he was a phenomenon. He challenged conventions, defied expectations, and left an unforgettable impression on every fan who witnessed his unique brand of chaos. From his accidental transformation into "The Animal" to his surprising double life as a dedicated teacher, his story is a rich tapestry of contrasts and commitment. He taught us that true character can exist even behind the most outlandish personas, and that dedication to one's craft, whether in a classroom or a wrestling ring, ultimately defines a legacy. His passing in 2017 left a void in the hearts of wrestling fans, but the memories of his green tongue, his turnbuckle-eating antics, and his wild-eyed intensity live on. He remains a testament to the power of a truly unique character and the enduring appeal of professional wrestling's golden age. What are your favorite memories of **George 'The Animal' Steele**? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and explore more articles on wrestling legends right here on our site!
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