Saturday GLOWcase: Celebrating G.L.O.W. Memories with Mike Rand

This week's Saturday GLOWcase celebrates one of the biggest fans and supporters of the GLOW brand, Mike Rand. I've known Mike Rand for a very long time and our mutual love for celebrating the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (G.L.O.W.) has been a fantastic journey. Mike and I are passionate about sharing what we can for fans to enjoy regarding this iconic show from long ago and our mutual goal of introducing new fans to G.L.O.W. remains unwavering. Although we've never met in person, there was a fleeting moment in 2018 when our paths almost crossed at a charming Chinese restaurant and karaoke bar in New York City's Chinatown. I look forward to the day we finally meet and can reminisce about our G.L.O.W. adventures face-to-face.

Mike with GLOW Girls Royal Hawaiian, Lightning and Hollywood

Growing up in the '80s, Saturday mornings were Mike's favorite time of the week. It was a period filled with his beloved cartoons and thrilling wrestling shows. One memorable Saturday, as he flipped through the channels at noon on New York's WPIX Channel 11, Mike stumbled upon something extraordinary—women's wrestling! It's fascinating that WPIX is the channel where Mike discovered and faithfully watched the show. Many other fans I know also discovered and enjoyed GLOW on WPIX. This was also the channel where I got the best reception on my handheld Realistic branded PocketVision 22 with a 2-inch screen from Radio Shack during the days I was homeless back in 1992, though GLOW was long gone by then.

Mike with Little Egypt of GLOW

At that time, Mike was already a devoted WWF fan, eagerly tuning in every week to watch his favorite male wrestlers in action. However, the concept of women wrestling was entirely new to him. When he first saw these fierce ladies step into the ring, he was captivated by their athleticism and charisma. The excitement of watching them battle it out, get into intense fights, sing catchy songs, rap with swagger, and even perform hilarious comedy sketches was exhilarating. It was a thrilling and dynamic spectacle that went beyond traditional wrestling, combining elements of entertainment in a way he had never experienced before. This unique blend of athletic prowess and theatrical flair hooked him instantly, making G.L.O.W. an unmissable part of his Saturday mornings.

Mike interviewing GLOW's original Russian, Ninotchka

The characters on G.L.O.W. were not only entertaining but also undeniably gorgeous, each with their own unique flair and charisma. Choosing a favorite was nearly impossible for Mike because so many of the wrestlers stood out in their own special ways. Each woman brought something different to the ring, from their dazzling costumes and captivating personas to their impressive athletic skills and showmanship.

Mike with head GLOW writer Steve Blance

However, two of Mike's absolute favorites were Hollywood and Sally the Farmer’s Daughter. Both of these women were not just fantastic wrestlers; they looked like models with their stunning appearances and commanding presence. Hollywood's bad girl persona and Sally's wholesome, country girl charm made them natural rivals. Their matches were always electrifying and filled with intense energy.

Mike Interviewing GLOW's Godiva

Their chemistry was incredible, making every encounter in the ring a must-watch event. It wasn't until years later that Mike discovered they actually attended the same high school, which added a layer of authenticity and depth to their rivalry. Knowing that their competitive spirit was rooted in real-life connections made their in-ring battles even more genuine and exciting for fans like Mike.

G.L.O.W. (Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling) was a significant part of Mike's Saturday mornings. It aired on Connecticut's WTTX Channel 20 at 10:00 am and 11:00 pm during its first two seasons, providing prime-time slots that allowed fans to immerse themselves in the thrilling action and entertainment. After the first two seasons, Mike had to rely on the New York station, WPIX Channel 11, for season 3, which continued to feed his growing passion for the show.

Unfortunately, by the time season 4 rolled around, G.L.O.W. was moved to a late Saturday/early Sunday slot at 2:00 am, a challenging time for many fans to tune in. This change in schedule led to the show struggling to maintain its viewership, and it stopped airing after just 12 episodes. Mike, like many other devoted fans, was disheartened to see G.L.O.W. quietly disappear from the airwaves, leaving a void in his Saturday morning routine.

It wasn't until the advent of the internet that Mike realized there were 14 more episodes of G.L.O.W. he had never seen. The excitement of discovering these lost episodes and finally getting to watch them brought back a flood of memories. However, it also highlighted the sadness of the show's untimely disappearance. Despite this, the legacy of G.L.O.W. continued to live on in the hearts of its fans, including Mike, who loved every moment of the show and its impact on the world of wrestling entertainment.

Mike and Lightning

Mike's list of favorite wrestlers is extensive, including Hollywood, all three Farmer's Daughters, Godiva, The California Doll, Tina Ferrari & Ashley Cartier, The Heavy Metal Sisters, The Housewives, Ninotchka, Spanish Red, Mt. Fiji, and many more. Each one brought something special to the ring. Some of his favorite segments included Tiffany’s G.L.O.W. Gossip, Godiva’s Bare Facts, Asking Ashley, and California Doll’s Points To Ponder. The battle royals were always a highlight, as were the matches between Sally & Hollywood, Americana & Ninotchka, Mt. Fiji & Big Bad Mama, and the chaotic encounters with The Heavy Metal Sisters and Godiva.

Over the years, Mike has been fortunate enough to befriend many of the incredible ladies from G.L.O.W. His passion for the show and genuine admiration for these women led to lasting friendships that he cherishes deeply. Mike's involvement with G.L.O.W. took a significant turn in 2012 when he had the opportunity to participate in the G.L.O.W. documentary. This project allowed him to share his insights and experiences, contributing to the preservation of the show's legacy.

In addition to the documentary, Mike took it upon himself to run a fan page dedicated to the G.L.O.W. ladies. This platform became a hub for fellow fans to connect, reminisce, and celebrate their favorite wrestlers. During the pandemic, Mike seized the opportunity to take his passion a step further by interviewing a few of the G.L.O.W. stars and sharing their stories on YouTube. What started as a couple of interviews quickly blossomed into a full-fledged series, with 15 interviews to date.

These interviews provided fans with a deeper understanding of each wrestler's backstory, offering unique insights into their journeys both inside and outside the ring. Through these conversations, Mike helped keep the spirit of G.L.O.W. alive, ensuring that the legacy of these trailblazing women continues to inspire and entertain new generations of fans.

Though G.L.O.W. eventually left the air, it remains special to Mike because of the wonderful memories he has of watching it and getting to know these remarkable women. They were true trailblazers, paving the way for future generations of female wrestlers, whether they realized it or not.

Mike and Hollywood

Connect with Mike Rand and dive deeper into the world of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling by following him on his social media platforms. Join the community on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmikerand, X (formerly Twitter) at x.com/mikerandcom and Instagram at instagram.com/officialmikerand. Don't miss out on his engaging interviews and content on YouTube at youtube.com/@OfficialMikeRand and visit his official website at https://mikerand.com for more updates and exclusive content.

As we celebrate these incredible memories, I invite you to share your own stories and experiences of G.L.O.W. Whether you met any of the wrestlers in person, watched their mesmerizing performances, or were inspired by their strength and charisma, I would love to hear from you. Feel free to leave comments and share your memories of GLOW. Let's honor these incredible women, crew and fans together! If you feel inspired to support our efforts in keeping the spirit of G.L.O.W. alive, your contributions in any form are greatly appreciated. Every little bit helps me continue sharing these stories and celebrating the legacy of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling. Thank you for being a part of this wonderful community!

You can also find me on the following social media platforms:
https://www.facebook.com/adrianduarte
https://bsky.app/profile/adriansknitwits.bsky.social
https://www.instagram.com/adriansknitwits
https://www.threads.net/adriansknitwits

Saturday GLOWcase: Rick Howard Jr.'s Passion for GLOW

Today, I want to shine a spotlight on my friend Rick Howard Jr., a devoted fan of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (GLOW) and someone I've had the pleasure of knowing online for many years. Rick and I finally met in person in March during a cruise with the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling, and it's a memory I'll always hold close to my heart. Here's Rick's captivating story about being a GLOW superfan, based on the information he shared with me.

Rick with Hollywood

When GLOW debuted at midnight on a Saturday night, Rick's dad waited until his mom fell asleep and woke him up to watch the new show with his firstborn son. Little did Rick's dad know that this would spark an obsession that would shape Rick's childhood and beyond. From that night on, Rick's life revolved around the vibrant, action-packed world of GLOW.

Rick and GLOW's Lightning

Rick immediately fell in love with Spanish Red, who resembled his fourth-grade teacher—a woman he had a childhood crush on. It wasn't long before Rick had all the neighborhood kids hooked on GLOW, thanks to the episodes he faithfully recorded on VHS every Saturday. Every Sunday morning before church, Rick would dash to the living room to rewind the tape, ensuring they could watch the latest episode right after church.

Rick's dedication to GLOW was evident in every aspect of his life. He had his boom box ready to record every rap from the show, which he and his friends used during their reenactments. One day, Rick's dad had a special surprise for him and his siblings—he had built a wrestling ring in their basement, allowing them to transform into GLOW wrestlers more effectively. Rick's 10th birthday party was even a battle royal wrestling party, a testament to how deeply the show had integrated into his life.

Rick's favorite character recreations were Spanish Red, complete with a towel as a cape and a plastic rose, Hollywood, with a feather hair clip he won at the fair, Debbie Debutante, and Sally the Farmer's Daughter, complete with his crop top. His brother often pretended to be Ninotchka, with a fake cigar, and his little sister played Little Egypt, Little Fiji, a Southern belle, or a character they created named Ballarenor.

Despite his love for GLOW, Rick's school performance suffered. He frequently daydreamed about the show and sketched cartoon drawings of his favorite wrestlers, including Hollywood and Vine, Spanish Red, Debbie and Susie, and Sally. Even when he joined the wrestling team, Rick couldn't resist incorporating GLOW moves, which often got him into trouble for using the leg scissors.

GLOW wasn't just a show for Rick; it was a source of courage and inspiration. It taught him to stand up for the underdog and to never let anyone tear him down. Much like Rick, hundreds of miles away, I was also impersonating GLOW wrestlers as a kid, drawn into the same thrilling world. Rick's story is a testament to the profound impact that a TV show can have on a person's life, fostering creativity, resilience, and a sense of community.

Rick's "Mama Bear" GLOW Character

Having shared these memories and bonded over a mutual love for GLOW, Rick and I have developed a strong friendship that will hopefully withstand the test of time. Meeting Rick in person on the GLOW cruise was a highlight, and our connection only grew stronger. I hope our friendship will always remain as robust and vibrant as the GLOW stories that brought us together.

Rick with our good friend James, waiting to board the Norwegian Encore

Rick Howard Jr.'s journey as a GLOW superfan is a heartwarming reminder of the power of passion and the bonds formed through shared interests. It's been a joy to feature his story and to celebrate the incredible world of GLOW that continues to inspire fans like Rick. Our enduring friendship is a testament to the community and connections that GLOW has helped create.

I hope you enjoyed reading Rick's inspiring journey as a GLOW superfan. Do you have any memorable experiences, personal stories, or favorite GLOW memories? I’d love to hear about them in the comments. Sharing your stories makes this journey all the more special. If you enjoyed this post and would like to support my storytelling journey, any small token of appreciation is always welcome. Let’s keep the joy of sharing memories and stories alive together!

Saturday GLOWcase: James Paul Maher: A Devoted GLOW Fan from New Jersey

 

Welcome to the Saturday GLOWcase! In addition to featuring the wrestlers, cast, and crew of GLOW, I also highlighting the original fans of the show. Without the dedicated viewers, GLOW wouldn’t have thrived for the four amazing seasons that it did. Today, I am celebrating one of those loyal fans who made GLOW the iconic show it is.

James Paul Maher, circa late 1980's

James Paul Maher found GLOW purely by accident. One Saturday at noon, while flipping through channels, he stumbled upon WPIX Channel 11 airing Season 3, Episode 5, where Vicky Victory faced MTV. From that moment, James was hooked and watched every episode he could find. Although he caught Season 3 twice, the show was eventually dropped from his local station, so he never knew Season 4 existed. Hollywood, Sally, and Thunderbolt quickly became his favorite wrestlers, each leaving a lasting impression on him.

James always wished he could’ve gone to Las Vegas to see GLOW live. The closest he got was calling the GLOW 900 number, which cost him $20—a charge that initially got his dad in trouble until his mom called the number herself and found out the truth. Even though he wasn’t allowed to record GLOW on VHS, James got creative and recorded the raps from the TV using his radio, despite his dog barking in the background. His dad eventually helped him set up a better recording method without the noise.

AI James preparing to record the GLOW raps

James’s dedication didn’t stop there. In 1998 or 1999, he bought his first GLOW DVD from eBay, but without a DVD player, he watched it on his computer. He joined the original GLOW message board run by Ursula, where he chatted with other fans and even Hollywood, who sold him some personal videos. Hollywood was always very sweet to him, as was Tiffany Mellon, who sent him an autograph photo.

Through the message board, James also connected with PJ DiGiacomo from Somerville, New Jersey, and bought all four seasons of GLOW from him. PJ likely got his footage from Manzerman, who sold wrestling tapes online. James spent around $400 on his GLOW collection and kept adding missing episodes thanks to Ursula’s releases and his own hunts on YouTube for better quality footage. He transferred all the VHS tapes to DVDs, making a mostly complete collection with only a few missing skits, ending credits, and one televised match from Episode 91 of Season 4 (Roxy vs. Daisy rematch), which he has yet to find.

Hollywood and James

GLOW was a bright spot in James’s life when he felt like an outcast without many friends. It was a show where he could escape and forget his troubles for an hour. GLOW became an important outlet for him, especially since he wasn’t very close to his parents. He never imagined he’d meet his favorite GLOW girl, Hollywood, who has been incredibly sweet to him. Hollywood has visited him in Florida, picked him up in Tennessee for lunch, and done so much for him. In fact, today she picked him up for lunch while he was visiting Tennessee with our mutual friend and fellow GLOW fan, Rick Howard Jr., a few weeks ago. Hollywood’s kindness and generosity have shown James the beautiful person she is inside and out, and he couldn’t have asked for a better friend in his life.

James representing Hollywood with his GLOW belt

Over the years, James has also met several other GLOW girls, including Beastie and Lightning. He and I have been online friends for many years, and we finally met in person this past March on a GLOW cruise with Hollywood and Lightning from Miami to the Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, Tortola, and the Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. We became even better friends and made many great memories on our trip, with hopes for many more in the future.

James as his CHARMING-GLOW alter-ego Malachy MacCharm

James’s story shows the lengths fans would go to engage with GLOW, despite the challenges. His dedication and creativity in capturing GLOW's essence highlight its enduring appeal. James’s journey from discovering GLOW by accident to becoming a devoted fan showcases the show's lasting impact and legacy.

Saturday GLOWcase: Les Muir, A Dedicated Fan of GLOW from Chilliwack, Canada

Welcome to the Saturday GLOWcase! In addition to featuring the wrestlers, cast, and crew of GLOW, I will now also be highlighting the original fans of the show. Without the dedicated viewers, GLOW wouldn’t have thrived for the four amazing seasons that it did. Today, we’re celebrating one of those loyal fans who helped make GLOW the iconic show it is.

Les Muir, a devoted fan of GLOW (Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling), hails from the charming town of Chilliwack, Canada. His introduction to GLOW came through an unconventional route compared to many fans of the 80s wrestling phenomenon. Les and I first crossed paths on the 2017 GLOW cruise, where we quickly bonded over our shared appreciation for the iconic wrestling show and became good friends.

Les With Hollywood

Growing up in a farmhouse in the 1980s, Les's television experience was quite different. With only a 40-foot antenna outside the house, he could only access 3 or 4 channels on a good day. Cable television remained a distant luxury until he turned 20. As a result, Les never actually watched full episodes of GLOW during its original run. Instead, his first encounter with the GLOW ladies came through various talk and game shows where they made appearances.

One day, while watching the Phil Donahue show, Les noticed the colorful and dynamic presence of the GLOW wrestlers. Though he couldn’t watch the matches themselves, the glimpses he got from these shows were enough to spark a lasting interest. Among all the GLOW wrestlers, Beastie stood out as his favorite, thanks to her wild and unique outfit that left a lasting impression.

Les (Center) with GLOW girls Beastie & Sunny to the right and Angel on his left

Despite the limitations of rural television reception, Les's enthusiasm for GLOW remained strong. His story is a testament to the far-reaching impact of GLOW, which captivated audiences even outside the usual broadcasting range. Les's journey from discovering GLOW on talk shows to celebrating its legacy on a themed cruise highlights the enduring allure of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling.

Saturday GLOWcase: The Unforgettable Journey of Tina Ferrari

I first discovered GLOW towards the end of season two and quickly became a fan of several characters, including Hollywood, Vine, and Tina Ferrari. When the show moved to a different station for season three, almost the entire cast changed, and Tina was no longer part of it. This was disappointing, but I enjoyed the matches I had on VHS tapes and thought Tina was one of the most amazing ladies of GLOW.

Lisa Moretti, known to us as Tina Ferrari, graduated from USC in 1984 and had cheered for the L.A. Express in the United States Football League. Between jobs, her friend Nadine convinced her to join a boxing gym in Watts, where Mando Guerrero was training young actresses in wrestling. Despite the grueling training, they were invited back and eventually headed to Las Vegas to shoot a pilot for GLOW. Lisa was super nervous for her first wrestling match and felt completely unprepared, but watching the pilot episode, you'd never know. GLOW's mix of quirky characters, fun costumes, and comedy sketches allowed everyone to get creative. Lisa as Tina fit right in alongside Nadine, who became Ashley Cartier.

Matt Cimber named their tag team "T&A" (Tina & Ashley) as a cheeky nod to their most obvious assets. David McLane and most of the original cast stayed at the Riviera Hotel for nine months to finish two seasons of GLOW. Tina roomed with Ashley and reconnected with their friend Annette from cheerleading, who became GLOW’s Jungle Woman. Even without professional training, the ladies of GLOW made their characters memorable, crafting their own rap lyrics and designing their costumes. Tina credits the other performers for making her look good and acknowledges David McLane's continuous support for women's wrestling.

Me, Ashley Cartier, Pedro & Tina Ferrari

In 2017, I had the incredible opportunity to cruise with Tina Ferrari and her partner Ashley Cartier on the Norwegian Dawn, where I learned that after wrestling, Lisa transitioned to running a small pet services business. She found fulfillment in caring for her four-legged clients, providing a safe and loving environment. We had an amazing time in Mexico, Honduras, and Belize, and Tina was every bit the superstar I had hoped she would be. While in Cozumel, she and I raced on waterslides and played in a human-sized hamster wheel, where I inadvertently knocked her over, and she accidentally kicked me in the chest, leaving me with a huge bruise for a few days. It was AWESOME.

Tina and I in Costa Maya

One of the most amazing facts I learned about Lisa that week was that she had been taking singing lessons and became active in regional theatre. She was preparing to take on the role of Velma in a production of Chicago and treated a few of us to an impromptu performance of a full-on belted version of "All That Jazz." If I didn't already love Tina Ferrari during her wrestling days, hearing her sing a random show tune like that was enough to make me a fan all over again.