George ‘The Animal’ Steele passes away at 79 years old

The wrestling world got some sad news Friday morning as it was learned George “The Animal” Steele died Thursday night at the age of 79 years old.

Dave Meltzer reported Thursday that Steele (real name Jim Myers) was in hospice care. Dave will have more information and his usual background and bio up in this space shortly.

Steele enjoyed a 20+ year career, gaining his largest mainstream fame in the WWF in the 1980s, playing the role of a slightly deranged, yet fun loving character that ate turnbuckles and had a green tongue. Originally a heel, he battled top stars like WWWF Champion Bruno Sammartino, Pedro Morales, and Bob Backlund as his run began in the promotion in 1967.

One of his most notable feuds was with Randy Savage as Steele had fallen for his valet, Elizabeth. The rivalry played out on Saturday Night’s Main Event with Savage eventually coming out on top.

Steele made infrequent appearances for WWE over the years and also made stops for TV appearances in TNA and WCW.

Steele notably made it to the silver screen in 1994, playing Tor Johnson in Tim Burton’s Ed Wood.

He leaves behind a wife and three children.

Subscribers can listen to a September 2013 interview Bryan Alvarez did with Steele on his career.