Linda Hogan Slams Emmys for Hulk Omission Suspecting Political Motives
The former spouse of Hulk Hogan, Linda Hogan, has expressed strong disapproval of the 2025 Emmy Awards' decision to exclude the renowned wrestler from their "In Memoriam" tribute.
In an article released by Entertainment Weekly on Monday, September 15, Linda, aged 66, implied that the reason for Hulk's (whose birth name was Terry Bollea) exclusion might be linked to his political stances.
"I lack definitive proof for that," she conceded regarding the seamlessly executed Emmys broadcast, which featured comedian Nate Bargatze as host, known for steering clear of political discourse. "It's merely speculation on my part, yet his name absolutely deserved to be mentioned!"
Linda, whose marriage to Hulk spanned from 1983 to 2009, further stated, "During his wrestling appearances for WWF at the start of the hour…[Hulk] consistently achieved the highest viewership numbers on NBC, surpassing all rival programs in that specific time slot for an extended period!"
Other Notable Figures Omitted from the 2025 Emmys In Memoriam Tribute Alongside Hulk Hogan
The Emmy Awards ceremony, held on Sunday, September 14, similarly excluded several other luminaries from its “In Memoriam” segment, such as Jerry Adler, Danielle Spencer, Jonathan Joss, and Terence Stamp. Furthermore, the televised homage — presented alongside a musical act by country artists Vince Gill and Lainey Wilson — failed to acknowledge Gene Hackman and Val Kilmer, although their names were listed alongside Hulk's within an expanded tribute accessible on the Emmys' official website.
Hulk passed away in July at 71 years old, following a cardiac arrest event at his Clearwater, Florida residence. Us Weekly subsequently verified that the erstwhile grappler succumbed to an acute myocardial infarction.
Hulk achieved widespread recognition primarily through his tenure with WWE and World Championship Wrestling, and holds the distinction of being the inaugural wrestler to win back-to-back Royal Rumble competitions. His television appearances extended to series such as Hogan Knows Best, Thunder in Paradise, and The Goldbergs, as well as films including Rocky III, Gremlins 2: The New Batch, and Muppets from Space.
Hulk and Linda were parents to two children: Brooke, 37, and Nick, 35. As Us initially reported, Nick submitted legal paperwork earlier this month seeking to be designated co-administrator of his deceased father’s assets. Brooke, who had requested her removal from his will prior to his passing, was not listed as a recipient of the estate.
A Review of the Relationship Between Hulk Hogan and Former Wife Linda Hogan
“His choice does not come as a shock to me,” Brooke informed TMZ on September 11. “This is precisely what I requested, and I uphold it without any remorse.”
She further elaborated, “My father is aware that I am diligent and have managed to sustain myself independently of his finances for a considerable duration.”
