WWE Star Kevin Sullivan Dies at 74 After Surgery

Kevin Sullivan, a former WWE wrestler renowned for his personas as the Prince of Darkness and The Taskmaster, has died at the age of 74. His daughter, Nicole Sullivan, revealed on a GoFundMe page that he suffered a “devastating accident” in May while attending autograph signings in Florida. Following emergency surgery to save his leg and life, Sullivan faced severe complications, including sepsis and encephalitis. Sullivan's impact on professional wrestling was acknowledged by former wrestler Paul Levesque, known as Triple H, who praised his creative genius and passion for the industry. Levesque noted that Sullivan was instrumental in developing some of the most intriguing characters in wrestling history, leaving a lasting legacy among fans and peers alike. Beginning his career as Johnny West and The Boston Battler, Sullivan transformed into the Prince of Darkness in the early 1980s, drawing inspiration from heavy metal bands and the cultural climate of the time. His character often incorporated occult themes, and he led a faction known as the Army of Darkness, which became known for its theatrical entrances and rivalries with prominent wrestlers like Dusty Rhodes and Barry Windham. After retiring from wrestling in 1997, Sullivan continued to contribute to the industry as a booker. He is survived by his wife, Linda, and his four children, as well as his brothers, John and Charles. Sullivan's legacy in wrestling remains significant, marked by his innovative storytelling and memorable character work.