From CNN makeup artist to the face of wrestling's Attitude Era
In short: Before she was an icon of professional wrestling, Terri Runnels worked in the high-pressure world of television makeup. Her transition from a behind-the-scenes beauty expert for Larry King to a provocative on-screen manager helped define one of the most controversial and commercially successful eras in sports entertainment history.
Runnels began her career far from the spotlight, working as a make-up artist for CNN between 1985 and 1991. During this time, she notably worked on Larry King's makeup while spending her weekends doing makeup for Jim Crockett Promotions wrestlers. Her entry into wrestling was facilitated by Booker Ole Anderson, who recruited her to join the roster in 1990 as Alexandra York. In this role, she managed a finance-themed alliance called the York Foundation, a character developed over lunch with announcer Tony Schiavone.
Her career reached a cultural peak in the late 1990s within the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Debuting at the 1996 Royal Rumble as Marlena—a character inspired by Marlene Dietrich—she managed her real-life husband, Goldust. The 'Marlena' persona was defined by its opulent gold aesthetic and a cigar-smoking, indifferent attitude that mirrored Runnels' real-life habits. This provocative style contributed significantly to the rise of the Attitude Era and the development of the Diva division.
Runnels' career was marked by complex storylines, including high-profile feuds with The Kat and managing stables like The Radicalz and the Hardy Boyz. She eventually transitioned into hosting roles, such as the recap program Excess, and briefly held the Hardcore Championship in 2002. After her release from WWE in 2004, she pivoted toward philanthropy, working with organizations like Make-a-Wish and Big Brothers Big Sisters. In 2018, she was officially honored by WWE as a legend who contributed to the company's success.
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