Kevin Sullivan, Pro Wrestler Known for Playing Dark Villains, Dies at 74

Recognized for his sinister characters, he also served as a behind-the-scenes creative force for the WCW promotion

A woman and a man dressed in goth-esque dark makeup, the man wearing a chain around his neck.
Kevin Sullivan (R) with ex-wife Nancy as she began her wrestling career as the Fallen Angel in 1984. (Getty Images)

Pro wrestler Kevin Sullivan has died, WWE shared in a statement Friday. The wrestling legend had been known to be in the hospital in the last few months, suffering complications after emergency surgery for a “devastating accident” in May, his family shared last month. He was 74 years old.

The wrestler’s family announced last month that he was in intensive care. Following the surgery that saved his leg, he faced complications including encephalitis and sepsis. A GoFundMe fundraising campaign for his care raised more than $50,000 with other wrestling industry notables donating, including Cody Rhodes, Mick Foley, Chris Jericho, Diamond Dallas Page, Tony Khan, Jim Cornette and others.

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