Wife of Hulk Hogan files for divorce

CLEARWATER — As if the family’s affairs weren’t already complicated enough, it now appears that Terry and Linda Bollea, also known as Mr. and Mrs. Hulk Hogan, are heading to court for a divorce.

Pinellas County court records show that Linda Marie Bollea, 48, filed a petition for dissolution of marriage from Terry Gene Bollea, 54, on Tuesday. She is represented by Largo attorney Elliot Jay Goldstein.

The possibility that the Bolleas would divorce after 23 years of marriage has been the subject of an episode of  “Hogan Knows Best.” On the VH1 reality TV show, the couple reconciled.

More recently, the couple has been preparing to aid their son, Nick Bollea, 17, defend himself from a felony charge that he was driving reckless in August when his Toyota Supra went out of control and slammed into a tree. A passenger, John Graziano, suffered a brain injury.

Reached by phone on Friday night, Terry Bollea said he had no idea she had filed for divorce. Informed by a reporter that the paperwork was submitted on Tuesday, Bollea said, “Thank you for the great information,” and hung up.

He called back about five minutes later.

“I’m kind of shocked,” he said. “You caught me off-guard. My wife has been in California for about three weeks. ... Holy smokes. Wow, you just knocked the bottom out of me. ... I just pulled over to the side of the road for five minutes to find out what was going here.”

Asked whether he and his wife had discussed divorce, he said, “That’s my private business.”

Phone calls to Linda Bollea’s cellphone went unanswered on Friday night.

Comments

[Matt]

I saw Hulk on a flight in Las Vegas a week ago. He looked like he was in pain. I'm sure he has a lot of people making comments to him, so I didn't. I did, however, feel like telling him to hang in there. Wish I could do that now.

I rarely saw the program, but I think I could tell that he turned out to be a great dad (nobody's kids are perfect, people), a husband who was OK going through counseling in order to save his marriage, and a guy willing to poke fun at his own shortcomings.

Hulk, you've gained my respect and I hope people will keep things in perspective with the various difficulties happening in your life.

BTW - received such a notice from a reporter? That would certainly show who's without class. The only lesson to be learned I suppose is that a successful guy should be careful when picking up a future partner - apparently Linda was just a dumb bimbo along for the ride.

[Matt]

I saw Hulk on a flight in Las Vegas a week ago. He looked like he was in pain. I'm sure he has a lot of people making comments to him, so I didn't. I did, however, feel like telling him to hang in there. Wish I could do that now.

I rarely saw the program, but I think I could tell that he turned out to be a great dad (nobody's kids are perfect, people), a husband who was OK going through counseling in order to save his marriage, and a guy willing to poke fun at his own shortcomings.

Hulk, you've gained my respect and I hope people will keep things in perspective with the various difficulties happening in your life.

BTW - received such a notice from a reporter? That would certainly show who's without class. The only lesson to be learned I suppose is that a successful guy should be careful when picking up a future partner - apparently Linda was just a dumb bimbo along for the ride.

[J]

This whole situation is so sad for everyone involved. Over the years, I've seen "Hulk" and his wife at recreation soccer games...or her taking her daughter ice skating. I think they've tried to live as 'normal' a life as they can being in the public eye. It doesn't take a legal expert to see that she is trying to remove herself from the potential to harm her husband's career. She likely enjoyed street racing...Clearwater's a 'sleepy' town and one could conceivably 'get away' with doing so. Her son isn't the best driver (I heard he's not done well in a quasi racing career from my 18 yr old daughter who's as far removed from the family and racing as one could imagine....I don't even know where she heard about it.) The Bollea's will - and should - pay for the care of the Graziano's son. Everyone's lives in this case have been unalterably changed. Do we need to read of their mutual pain daily? They will work it all out. Let's not be voyeurs to this event and just hear the final decisions. Everyone's hearts go out to all involved and let justice prevail. Let us all tend to our own problems in our own homes and lives and families.

[Jesiah Bunyea]

Yo thats so weak I cant believe that she is leavin the Hulk Hogan. thats all right my dawg he'll be allright.

[Sonny Corelone]

It is all about the lawsuit.Half of nothing is nothing.Get her's now while it is still available.

[Mike]

I've met Hulk a couple of times over the years, as I kind of grew up around the wrestling business. I must say that he was a class act - each and every time. He really understood the benefits of being nice to your fans.

Mrs. Bollea, on the other hand, appears to have the workings of someone who craves her husband's spotlight. Now, in a tough time, she is attempting to flee. Is it any wonder - immediately after the release of her "pro-racing" video - that she is filing? I say no.

Hang in there Hulk. Say your prayers. Eat your vitamins.

Linda, whatcha gonna do, when Hulkamania runs wild on you?!

[Sharon Turk]

It seems like the Hulk has been very concerned (genuinely) about John Graziano and his mother since the accident. He has been helping them financially and will no doubt continue to, lawsuit or not. I guess Linda wants to get her half of the money before she has to share any more with the Grazianos. If Linda had any class at all, she'd at least have stuck around until her son's court case was resolved. Unbelievable! Hulk will be okay and hopefully he will get custody of the kids.

None of you know this family. "Met Hulk" a few times does not mee you are pals. How obtuse to hurls insults at a woman none of you know & a situation you are not involved with. Clearly you are all Rhodes scholars and learned persons to know so much & to have such "respect" for the wrestler and his poor, sad, uneducated, socially retarded family.

[Nutty]

I've been a Hulk fan since I was 8 yrs old, all I gotta say is "What is Linda gonna do when the Hulkster put them 20" pythons on her?
Hulk is tha man, and so is Linda! LOL

How sad that we hold these people in such high esteem. How have they improved the world? Cured cancer? Discoverede another world? Discoverd how to save the world? Create world peace? Discovered an alternative fuel? Stopped hunger? Contributed ANYTHING positve to the community? Where is the Bollea Library, the Bollea Home for Children? How about the Bollea Center for Critical and Logical Thinking?

Uh, who cares?

[gerry]

Well...maybe they just have a good lawyer..if mom gets a realllly good settlement in a divorce say 75% insterd of only 50% or less then the any other 'claims' can only attach the remainder...still plenty for both to get together on again later...!! Plus, as I recall, in florida the homestead isnt touchable either....hmmmmmm!

Probaly just wishful thinking...she is likely just another blonde fortune hunter!!

[Thunderlips]

Nutty,
They're 24 inch pythons, brother!

And to the anonymous individual who is Anti-Hulk, who was your role model growing up? What contributions have they made to society? Are they some twisted politician? Some religious fanatic?

Or do you hate Hogan because he's famous and frequents Bubba's radio program?

Just like a lot of 20-somethings out there, Hogan was bigger than life to me when I was a child. Finding out that he too grew up in Tampa made it even better.

Just because MJ doesn't talk about it doesn't mean Hulk doesn't contribute to the Tampa community.

And let's see about Linda, shall we? Since you say that we don't know her. Granted, we don't, per se. But we as John Q. Public can connect the dots. Fake blond? Check. Fake bolt-ons? Check. Lies? Check. Bailing on the marriage during hard times? Check.

Unlike the rest of us, apparantly you didn't graduate from the Hulk Hogan Center for Critical and Logical Thinking.

[DR]

Thunderlips. you're right, but don't give MJ props on here. That is the worst radio show in the world. Thank God I got sirius. I'll never go back to that FCC rated pure crap.
We all don't know the Hogan family. I for one, was never a wrestling fan but found the story interesting. Yes, we cannot judge Linda for the person she is but it is pretty bad when her husband finds out about a divorce filing four days later from a reporter. That is just a cowardly way to do things. Just from that fact alone, you have to question the person she is.
It is sad when people expect famous people to make contibutions to society when he/she hasn't even made an attempt. Doesn't matter how much money you make, a contribution to society is free. Doesn't cost a thing, maybe an hour of your time.

[debbiem]

Seems Linda didn't learn much in 23 years of marriage to Hulk. And that is "class". If she thinks she has any class what so ever....Duh....filing for divorce and not having that class even to tell someone you have been with for 23 yrs and benifited from his career, wellllllll need I say more....

[larry]

sorry to hear about hulk he is really a good man on tv wrestling. i have watched him for years and enjoyed him much....

[dude]

He's hung like a shetland pn\ony

[Tabitha Lynn Berry]

Growing up dirt poor wwf was huge in our home. I can only wish them both the best of luck. I have always been a hulkamanic and a huge fan of the hulk, and that is nothing personal to Lynda. I think all of America is tending to side with the hulk as he is our icon. Of course living in the world we do to day I am sure that we will see team Lynda and team Terry shirts soon. On that note going through a divorce is no cake walk I've been there and there is one small comfort in giving it you all having two wonderful kids, and 23 years isn't a small task as well. Good luck to you both...

[dennis]

Things do happen. Usually bit is a case of finding someone or not being home enough to help raise the kids. When hogan staed his career I could not be unglued to the set.
Anyways I was able to find one of Highliner's sports card issued in the early Ninties. Always want him to autograph it.
Maybe Hogan and his wife can work things out before it is costly for someone.

[Lil]

Divorce from Hulk doesn't make her (Linda) exempt from any financial obligations regarding the accident unless they mutually agree to it or if they cannot come to an agreement. In that case a judge would then decide.
I have always liked Hulk and watched wrestling as a child but he always seemed so rough on Brooke and so easy on Nick. May be why he (Nick) got himself into trouble. Who really knows? They seemed fine on the show but who knows what went on off camera.
Good Luck to them. Divorce is never easy.

[joann]

Well I think it is really sad that it all has come to this. i really like all the family brooke is a good person nick is a wild one but thae have been raised right, but i think Linda let brooke dress to skippy but she is a beautiful young lady and hulk u rock blessings to the family i pray all will work out for them

[Marlynn]

I have watched the show and it seems to me that Linda was always being made to feel guilty or the blame was on her. Maybe she could not take the way the Hulk was so obsessed with Brooke, a litte sick if you if you ask me. He let Nick do whatever he wanted. Just because she is divorcing Terry, doesn't mean that she is going to support her son or daughter. He should have concentrated more on being a parent instead of being his friend.
I hope Linda does well in life and the Hulk finally grows up, not everything is about the size of your arms or how you try to intimidate people with your body size.

[NANETTE LUND]

I HAVE WATCHED THE SHOW. IT SEEMS THAT EVERYTHING IS ABOUT BROOKE,DATING AND BROOKE EVERYTHING. MANY TIMES WHEN TERRY WAS TALKING ABOUT TAMING HIS KIDS, HIS WIFE WAS INCLUDED. IF THE FAMILY IS AS SHALLOW IN REAL LIFE AS THEY ARE ON THE SHOW, I AM NOT SURPRISED. IT SEEMS EVERYONE THAT ALLOWS THE WORLD IN, END UP IN DIVORCE.

[SS]

What a horrible way to find out your wife of many years is divorcing you.

My heart goes out to Terry (Hulk Hogan).

Many of us are or were wrestling fans and loved HULK HOGAN, BUT this has NOTHING to do with wrestling and i do not find the comments about Hulk and his wrestling persona nessacary.

SOme of you really need to GROW UP.

Terry,Prayers to you. Many things happen for a reason, that we may not make sence, until months later and then something will happen that makes it all make sence, and why.

[Destiny]

I have been a fan of Hulk Hogans for many years. I have also watched the show they are currently on. Seems the only one with there head on straight is the daughter.The son is out of control it was only a matter of time before he hurt himself or someone else with racing cars, he really has no respect for the rules of the road, nor for the person who was injured due to this joy ride.

I feel bad that after 23 or so years his wife is now filing for divorce, with all they have recently gone through you would think she would stand with her husband not leave him.

I've never met Hulk Hogan personally but know he has done much for his fans and family I wish him all the best, it really sucks his wife couldn't bother to tell him she was filing, finding out from a reporter must have hurt.

[GARRETT]

Linda Bollea has it in her mind that she better "abandon" ship before her son's lawsuit is settled and she loses out on any huge divorce settlement. What a "loving" mother! And today on flashpoint, watching her television interview blatanly lying about her love for drag racing and running from the police only to be caught on film confirming the host's accusation-demonstrates her self-preserving character.

[Julie]

To everyone who is bashing Linda let me tell you I did the same thing when I filed for divorce. I tried talking to my exhusband and he said "Go ahead and file, I don't care". So I filed for divorce then the night before I went to court I told him and he didn't believe me or take me serious so I went through with the divorce in court and figured he could just sit and rot and find out if I went through with it or not. Maybe Hulk has treated Linda the same way - you never know what goes on behind closed doors. Don't judge her so quickly.

[jeannie]

Your strength comes from God! Hang in there Hulk!!

[MaleM]

Smells like a whole load of $$$£££€€€ to me...

[Danette]

You don't know what happens behind close doors. You don't know who to blame. My prayers go out to Hulk and Linda.

[Jesse M]

Hulk is one of my idols and he treats everybody well including Linda, but yes there are a lot of things that would be said about the timing. If you people talking bad about Linda watched their show you would know that they were having problems. Of course nobody knows all that happend so I don't think that anybody should be bad mouthing anybody unless you know the whole story, "Which I bet you don't". My thoughts are with you Hogan Family and the Graziano family. Yet again any of you talking bad and have no clue shut up.

[Harry]

I trying to figure out why Linda wouldn't be liable for any judgment against Nick? That doesn't seem to be the way it works. And if it isn't, getting out before the judgment can't be the motive for the divorce.

[Harry]

I'm trying to figure out why Linda wouldn't be liable for any judgment against Nick? That doesn't seem to be the way it works. And if it isn't, getting out before the judgment can't be the motive for the divorce.

Odd but keeps us entertained, or not?

[johnny ko]

White trash run amok!

[mike]

I HOPE YOU HAVE A PER NUP TO PROTECT YOU FROM THAT GOLD DIGGER.

[cathy]

was shocked!! hogan s a good person. go to hell, linda

[kiki]

It will be alright forget her, you can do better by yourself.

[ME:)]

Man I hate that b/c i watched their show and I thought they were such a sweet lovinbg family! They looked so happy and well together.I wish she'd reconsider.Theyve been throught alot and they look so cute together:( I know the kids must be hurt. Good Luck with that though,Im just sad.The Hulk family is over...!?!

[LLL]

I am so sad to hear that Linda has filed for a divorce, they made it 24 years!! They seem like such a happy family. It's really sad that Terry found out via a reporter, why would Linda allow that. Marriage is hard work!!! I really hope they can still work it out!!

[A.J.Miller]

Hey Hulk! You gave it your best. My heart goes out to you brother. I divorced after 20 yrs. Now 7 years later, I can see it was the best decision. Do your best to focus on your two great kids! They'll need their Dad to be strong. If Linda wants to go, try to let her go like a gentleman, you'll be glad you did later. Wish I was there with you to help out. Reach me at cjm4ajm@msn.com You and the kids are in my prayers!
A.J.

[leona riley]

I think LInda is a B she has no selfworth hulk has given everything for his famiy and praised her he was so in love with her I hope she rotts he deserves someone that will love like he loves good luck hulk

[Rob Miller]

Its unfortunate, but the young man injured pays the price. I have no doubt the Hulkster will take care of this kid. When the going get tough, the Tough get going, not running Linda. But her weakness is from the result of the power of the Hulkster, the 26 inch Pythons,The legend of hulkamania,How could you be strong with a huge icon such as the hulkster holding up the pillars. The pressure must be tremendous for her.

[keven523]

For whoever that is that can't spell DISCOVERED, you obviously have no respect for the icon this family has been to the wrestling industry! Hulk is a legend and my condolences go out to him and his family. None of us know the reasoning behind the situation they are in, and really, it's none of our business. Prayers to the Bollea family. Oh, and by the way, why does it have to fall on someone who's "famous" shoulder's to "save the world!" Do you have a center that "knows the cure for cancer," or has the key to "world peace." Get a grip man! This is a real family! I hope for the best with this family, and don't let the ignorence of some of these people get you down! Thoughts and prayers go out to The Bollea Family.

[kathy]

Hulk, help us fight alimony in the state of Florida.
I am a female who can WORK, vote, buy property, go to college or the Citadel. Go to alimonyreform.org or stopalimony@hotmail.com.

[Clariol]

We do not know these people -- but from the tv show I felt he was strick on his wife and daughter and not his son. I think she got tired of the "I'm the boss!" additude. Her son's accident was probably the last straw. She probably thought he was being too much of a friend and less of a father. If he had of taught his son correctly (that if you act up you will have to eventually face the consequences.)

I live with a control freak too. He never listens to anyone. He feels his way is the best.

[GreenEyesBleu]

Hey, Terry and Linda are people, just like the rest of us. Why are we so fascinated with "Celebrity"? Why? they are just people. 54% of Marriages end in divorce. Celebrity marriages are a much higher percentage. I would guess because of this "fishbowl" life they are forced to lead and this feeling that we can voice our opinions about their life decisions. We wouldn't dare do that to a friend...we'd lend a hand, a shoulder and care. We really don't and shouldnt' voice our opinions, afterall, our opinions are not read by either Terry nor Linda and none of these postings are going to help them. For God's sake we know nothing about these two, nothing. Leave them alone and let them work it out, whether there is a reconciliation or a divorce.

[emma]

hulk you are a very strong guy. by seeing you last week i felt your sadness and all heart broken cods. a divorce after 23 years is hard. most likely you and lynda will get through this and make up.. its hard.. but stay strong<3

[emma]

oh, and you are a good guy, so linda, GO TO HELL

jk

but she can get over her effing lizard

hahahahaha<<<<<<<<<<<33333333333333333

[emma]

oh, and you are a good guy, so linda, GO TO HELL

jk

but she can get over her effing lizard

hahahahaha<<<<<<<<<<<33333333333333333

[Kitty]

I'm sure this is all a scam. Linda will get a bundle of money and run, or hide it legally, somehow, the lawsuit won't be able to get ALL the money, after the lawsuit, they'll be back together. They may be planning this together.

Hogan is far too crafty....somethings cooking???

[Darlene]

I think Linda was cheated on and that is wrong! You can't stay with a man you can't trust and I hope Linda has her day in court so she won't be blamed for something Terry caused. Only a cheater would blame Linda and if you think this is the right thing to do Linda then do what you have to do for your self respect. My best to you and your children!

[Darlene Comley]

Linda you have been wife, Mother and caretaker of your family, we as mothers know how much you put into a family and how much you take care of each one you love. You should get paid for all the hard work and Terry should pay for it.
Darlene

[christin]

i think that terry will be alright. stay strong brother!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

[christina]

i feel 4 u bro you been wit her 4 a long time but i know u'll be all right stay in there man

[Z]

Hey Hulk,
If Linda doesn't want to be married anymore their's not much you could do about it but, enjoy your life and most of all...your beautiful kids.

Here's wishing you the best..
Z

[susie]

I have two comments pretaining to and for The Hulkster #1. Marry me {I'd wrestle Linda in a NY minute to be your lady. #2 you are a giver try to surround yourself with a support system of those whom desire to take care of you for a change instead of so many who have hitched a free ride on your fame and then are no where to be found when you need them.
Back to #1 This girl will take good care of you baby. Marriage is a life long commitment not a free ride

I WAS A BIG FAN OF THE SHOW......BUT, NOW I FIND HIM DISGUSTING....PEOPLE HAVE SAID HES A CLASS ACT A GREAT DAD.....

REALLY?

HE'S A CLASS ACT WHO CHEATED ON HIS WIFE IN 2006.....

I WAS A BIG FAN OF THE SHOW......BUT, NOW I FIND HIM DISGUSTING....PEOPLE HAVE SAID HES A CLASS ACT A GREAT DAD.....

REALLY?

HE'S A CLASS ACT WHO CHEATED ON HIS WIFE IN 2006.....

IN MARRIAGE YOU PROMISE NOT TO CHEAT.....

BUT, HE GETS ON TV AND MAKES UP A POEM AND GOES TO COUNSELING TO "save his marriage", BUT never, SAYS ANYTHING ABOUT HIS UNFAITHFULNESS TO HIS WIFE OR CHILDREN....

OHHHHH, YEA, HES A GREAT HUSBAND AND A CLASS ACT FOR SURE.....

[wookie]

i think the thing is bull after all theyears together she should try to work it out i think hulk she just say bye to the hole thing and jump back in the ring and drop the leg on someone

[USMC1968]

The best thing to do is kill her with kindness.

Give her what she wants.

It's not worth the fight.

You loved this woman at one time ... loved her enuff to marry her.

If you're left with $15 million ... I think you're be okay.

She needs the money ... $15,000/month on shoes, dresses, hats, gowns, $1,500/month on jewery and $7,500/month on maid service ... the woman needs lots of money.

Remember she's too busy to get a job.

My wife left me without saying a word, when I came home from work, she was gone. There were no problems or complaints about anything. (No young children at home) I did not know where she went or that she was involved with another man. She filed for divorce while living with the another man that I had no idea of. She got more then half, also lump sum alimony & permanent alimony taken weekly from my paycheck. She gets more of my paycheck then I do. I was also ordered to pay all court costs and her attorney fee's. Florida is a no-fault state and I work for a living. I never knew this could happen and how unfair the law is. Nothing matters and I had no say in anything. It takes 2 to get married, but only 1 to get divorce. They have been together for over ten years together and I am still supporting both of them. They live as husband and wife, but will never married because of the alimony. I can never retire.
It looks like the Hulk will be in the same situation.
I thought it was not right when a friend of mine years ago divorced his wife when she lost her job, now I understand why. Anything that deals with fault (cheating etc.) makes no difference. The spouse that makes the most money will pay. I don't pay alimony, they take it. No way to get out of it. Quit work and you still owe it. Have the money and don't pay, you go to jail.