Emotional Farewell: Triple H, Kid Rock, and More Attend Hulk Hogan’s Memorial Without Daughter Brooke
Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan was honored in a heartfelt memorial service this Tuesday, where the biggest names in wrestling and entertainment came together for a final, emotional farewell. Held at Indian Rocks Baptist Church in Largo, Florida, the private ceremony’s guest list read like a hall of fame—though one notable absence spoke volumes: Hogan’s daughter, Brooke.
The public was kept at bay, but paparazzi captured the steady stream of icons arriving to pay their respects. Among the first were Vince McMahon, WWE executive Triple H, and his wife, former WWE co-CEO Stephanie McMahon. The high-profile couple’s arrival by private jet set the tone for the star-studded gathering.
Rock star Kid Rock attended wearing a yellow feather in his hat—a subtle but powerful tribute to Hogan’s signature colors. Bam Margera, known for his Jackass fame, was also seen, along with comedian and podcaster Theo Von, representing the broad influence Hogan had far beyond the wrestling ring.
Photographs from the event, published by PageSix, revealed pallbearers carrying Hulk Hogan’s casket into the church. Each wore a yellow boutonnière, echoing the red-and-yellow ring attire that made Hogan an international superstar. The understated gesture spoke to the respect—and affection—Hogan commanded throughout his career, and the unique spot he held in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.
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But while wrestling and entertainment royalty turned out in force, Brooke Hogan—Hogan’s daughter—was noticeably absent. Their relationship had been strained in recent years, and Brooke was missing not only from the private memorial, but also from WWE’s televised Monday Night Raw tribute days earlier. Addressing speculation, Brooke shared with fans that she wasn’t invited to any of the tribute events, stating plainly, “I had not been invited in the first place.”
Instead, Brooke chose her own way to honor her father—one that seemed both deeply personal and poetic. She brought her children to the beach, the place Hulk Hogan loved most. On Instagram, she shared a touching black-and-white childhood photo with her dad, adding, “Taking our babies to your favorite place today, the beach.” Her message continued: “We will be celebrating your life and all our good memories while we have our feet in the same saltwater you loved. Until we meet again, daddy.”
Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, passed away on July 24 after suffering cardiac arrest at age 71. While the official cause of death was listed as a heart attack, the medical examiner later revealed that Hogan had been privately battling chronic lymphocytic leukemia, as well as atrial fibrillation—a heart condition that increases the risk of stroke and complications. As per his final wishes, Hulk Hogan is set to be cremated, with arrangements already underway.
Grief poured in from family as well. Hogan’s wife, Sky Daily, posted on Instagram, “This loss is sudden and impossible to process. My heart is in pieces.” Nick Hogan, Hulk’s son and the only family member present during the WWE tribute, echoed the heartbreak: “This has been overwhelming and extremely difficult.”
Though Hulk Hogan is gone, the turnout at his memorial—and the tributes from those who mourned in their own way—show just how far his legacy stretches: from the squared circle to music, comedy, and beyond. His impact, both in pop culture and in the lives of those closest to him, will resonate forever.
What do you think about Brooke Hogan’s private tribute—and the famous faces who came to honor her father? Were you surprised by the guest list, and by those who stayed away? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
