Brooke Hogan has been telling those close to her that she’s thankful she had one final opportunity to tell her father, Hulk Hogan, that she loved him – even though their relationship had been distant in recent years, TMZ reported. According to sources familiar with the situation, Brooke found out about her father’s passing on Thursday morning when her brother, Nick, texted the news to her husband. The two hadn’t been close for quite some time, due to a history of strained interactions and unresolved issues stemming from how Hulk treated her over the years.
Their final conversation reportedly happened about two weeks before Hulk married Sky Daily in September 2023. During that call, Brooke expressed her love for her dad and voiced concern about his health, saying she didn’t think he should still be pushing himself so hard. Hulk, however, wasn’t receptive. He also offered an apology during the call, though he didn’t clarify what he was sorry for.
Sources say Brooke always had a protective instinct toward her father and genuinely wanted what was best for him – even when that care was met with resistance. Her husband also made efforts to rebuild the bridge, including reaching out after Brooke had a near-death experience during childbirth. But Hulk reportedly responded coldly and showed no interest in meeting her children. In the end, sources say he only wanted a relationship with Brooke on his terms.
Despite everything, Brooke feels fortunate she had the chance to say “I love you” before they stopped speaking, and she’s at peace knowing she did everything she could to look out for him.
As previously reported, Hulk Hogan died due to a cardiac arrest. He was 71.
U.S. President and WWE Hall of Famer (celebrity wing) Donald Trump issued the following statement on Hogan’s death:
“We lost a great friend today, the ‘Hulkster.’ Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way – Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart. He gave an absolutely electric speech at the Republican National Convention, that was one of the highlights of the entire week. He entertained fans from all over the World, and the cultural impact he had was massive. To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!”
Former WWE CEO Vince McMahon issued the following statement on Hogan’s death:
“The world lost a treasure today. Hulk Hogan was the greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME, someone who was loved and admired around the world. He was a trailblazer, the first performer who transitioned from being a wrestling star into a global phenomenon. His grit and unbridled thirst for success were unparalleled – and made him the consummate performer. He gave everything he had to the audience whom he appreciated, respected and loved. He leaves us with one of his favorite expressions, ‘Train, take your vitamins and say your prayers.’ Today, we pray for him.”
The Undertaker issued the following statement on Hogan’s death:
“The wrestling world has lost a true legend. His contributions to our business are immeasurable and for that I am appreciative. Thank you, Hulk Hogan.”
Taker also shared the following rare photo of him and Hogan backstage at WrestleMania 35 in 2019:
RELATED: Ric Flair Issues Statement On Hulk Hogan’s Death
