Saturday GLOWcase Remembering Mountain Fiji: A GLOW Legend's Story

Picture this: Late 1980's, Saturday mornings, glued to the TV, the vibrant world of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (GLOW) unfolding in all its glory. For many of us, it wasn't just a show; it was an escape, a burst of color and a showcase of incredible women. Among them shone Mountain Fiji, a true giant of the ring with an even bigger heart. I've always been captivated by GLOW, especially characters like Hollywood & Daisy, but Mountain Fiji, portrayed by the wonderful Emily Dole, held a special place in my heart. I hope you enjoy this edition of Saturday GLOWcase and I apologize for slowing down a bit on my features but as I’ve mentioned in previous blogs, my main focus at the moment is the completion of “Under the Lifeguard’s Watch” and my real life. I do enjoy my Saturday features though because they aren’t just about recollection; for me, it's a journey back to a time of wonder and admiration.

Like so many, I was utterly charmed by GLOW. Hollywood & Daisy are my all time favorites, but Mountain Fiji stood out as an iconic figure throughout all four seasons. As a "good girl" or one of "Stallone's Sweethearts," she brought a unique energy to the ring. Her rivalries with Matilda the Hun and later Big Bad Mama were legendary. Often, she found herself in handicap matches, taking on two opponents at once, showcasing her incredible strength and gentle spirit. Remember those moments when she'd hoist Melody Trouble Vixen above her head and throw her out of the ring? Pure magic!

What truly set Fiji apart was her connection with the audience, especially the kids. Her ring entrances were like a magnet, drawing them in for high fives and hugs. It wasn't just about the wrestling; it was about the warmth and genuine interaction. Every GLOW lady I've heard from has nothing but praise for Emily Dole. The documentary "The Story of The Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling" really shows the deep affection and respect they all had for her. Hearing about her later years, living in nursing homes, just made me wish I could have met her. I did manage to send an ornament through Roxy Astor and seeing Fiji's reaction in a video Roxy shared was such a heartwarming moment. I thank you for that Roxy.

Thinking back, I even wrote a fan letter to Mountain Fiji when I was 12 or 13, sending it to the Riviera Hotel. Of course, it probably never reached her, given the show had moved and how fan mail was often handled. But in my heart, I sent that positive energy out into the universe. Her matches were always a highlight of the show, especially when she protected Little Fiji in the early years. And who can forget her first match against Hollywood and Vine? So campy, so dramatic, so much fun! Her sketches as a Mae West-esque character or a Carmen Miranda-inspired persona were hilarious and creative too.

Emily Dole's journey to becoming Mountain Fiji was quite serendipitous. Initially, she was part of the LA Scandals football team. When the team dissolved, an agent named John Ford (who also represented George Brett) pointed her and other ladies toward an audition for a wrestling show. This "hush-hush" audition turned out to be for GLOW.

At the audition, Emily was immediately noticed. Surrounded by models and cheerleaders, she stood out with her height and presence. Director Matt Cimber spotted her right away and asked if she liked children. When she expressed her love for Elvis, Mae West and Marilyn Monroe, he knew she was perfect for the role of the superhero, the "good girl." Despite Emily's initial desire to be a villain, Cimber's charm and a mention of her "dimples" sealed the deal.

Emily met the Heavy Metal Sisters on the very first day, and they became fast friends. Jungle Woman, an Oakland Raider Cheerleader, choreographed the show. Emily initially had a room to herself but later stayed with Matt Cimber's aunt, Aunt Kitty. The character of Mountain Fiji was a collaborative creation between Emily, writer Steve Blance, director Matt Cimber and producer David McLane, with significant input from the fans.

Emily was amazed by her own strength, often lifting other wrestlers with ease. She credited the other ladies for their trust and willingness to be lifted. For Emily, GLOW was not just a show; it was a community. The ladies were her "rock" and "mentors." Matt Cimber was instrumental in shaping her character, from the "Hoi!" catchphrase to her iconic costume. Steve Blance helped develop her lines and persona, making it clear that Mount Fiji was entirely separate from Emily Dole.

Later in life, health issues took their toll. Emily had to reconcile being a beloved wrestling character with her new reality as a patient. While Mount Fiji would eat seventeen pizzas, Emily could not. Though her voice changed and she could no longer walk, her spirit and laugh remained. She spoke fondly of her time on GLOW, the diverse personalities of her fellow wrestlers and the joy of seeing them again during the documentary. Sadly, Emily passed away at the age of 50 on January 3, 2008, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and love.

Mountain Fiji’s story, both within the ring and behind the scenes, is a testament to the power of character, community and the enduring love of fans. Emily Dole brought such joy and strength to so many and her legacy lives on. Share your own memories of Mountain Fiji and GLOW in the comments below! Have you had the chance to connect with any of the GLOW ladies? If you're moved by any of my stories and would like to contribute to my own legacy, feel free to reach out with your thoughts or offerings. Your support means the world in keeping my stories going.

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Saturday GLOWcase: A Dark Week, A Personal Update & Recap of Previous Articles

Hello GLOW enthusiasts and friends!

This past week has been a whirlwind! Life threw me curveballs at work, at home and everywhere in between. As much as I strive to stick to my daily posting schedule, there are times when life takes precedence—and this week was one of those times. But you know what? It’s all part of the journey and I believe in sharing it all, the highs and lows, with you, my amazing readers.

Unfortunately, this means this week’s "Saturday GLOWcase" has to take a rain check. Don’t worry, though—I’ve cooked up something truly special for next week that will make the wait absolutely worth it!

For those of you who might be new here or just want to revisit some of our GLOW-tastic content, let me introduce you to my daily themes and recap some past highlights. Grab a cup of your favorite drink and let’s dive in!

Daily Themes Overview:

• Sunday Shoot the Breeze: Heartfelt life stories and personal reflections to kickstart the week.
• Monday Mysteries: Intriguing tales of the unexplained or enigmatic.
• Tuesday Tunes: Reviews, stories and tributes to the music that I love and hopefully you appreciate.
• Wednesday Show 'n Tell: Recipes, product reviews or exciting finds—my little corner to share things I love.
• Thursday Bookish Adventures: Book-related discussions thanks to my love of reading which goes hand in hand to my job as a Book Operations Supervisor at Atlanta Airport!
• Friday Date Night Fun: Ideas and reflections on activities perfect for a date night, from movies to musicals and everything in between.
• Saturday GLOWcase: My ode to the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling—the wrestlers, creators, crew, and fans who made it iconic.

To keep the GLOW spirit alive, here’s a complete list of the "Saturday GLOWcase" posts we’ve published so far. Whether you want to relive these shining moments or catch up if you’ve missed any, all the links are here for you:

1. Tulsa, Jodi Haselbarth: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/10/saturday-wrestling-spotlight-tulsas.html
2. Evangelina, Christy Smith: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/10/saturday-spotlight-evangelina-from.html
3. Matilda the Hun, Deanna Booher: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/11/remembering-matilda-unforgettable-glow.html
4. Little Feather: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/11/saturday-spotlight-glowing-journey-of.html
5. Cheyenne Cher, Dee Walker: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/11/cheyenne-cher-empowering-indian.html
6. Melody Trouble Vixen, MTV, Eileen O'Hara: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/11/glowing-spotlight-melody-trouble-vixen.html
7. Tina Ferrari, Lisa Moretti: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/11/glow-ing-saturday-spotlight.html
8. Tiffany Mellon, Sandra Margot: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/12/saturday-glowcase-unforgettable-tiffany.html
9. GLOW Fan, Les Muir: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/12/saturday-glowcase-les-muir-dedicated.html
10. Daisy, Helena Cameron: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/12/saturday-glowcase-helena-cameron-aka.html
11. GLOW Fan, James Paul Maher: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/12/saturday-glowcase-james-paul-maher.html
12. Hollywood, Jeanne Basone: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/10/saturday-morning-wrestling-glow.html
13. GLOW Fan, Rick Howard Jr.: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/01/saturday-glowcase-rick-howard-jrs.html
14. Angel, Andrea Laird Micheil: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/01/saturday-glowcase-celebrating-angel.html
15. GLOW Fan, Richard Hughes: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/01/saturday-glowcase-glow-fan-richard.html
16. Matt Cimber, the director of GLOW: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/02/saturday-glowcase-story-of-glows.html
17. GLOW Fan, Michael Karr: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/02/saturday-glowcase-michael-karrs-glow.html
18. Godiva, Dawn Maestas: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/02/saturday-glowcase-godivas-glittering.html
19. GLOW Fan, Jennifer Chiola: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/02/saturday-glowcase-tribute-from-loyal.html
20. Jungle Woman, Annette Marroquin: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/03/glowcase-annette-marroquin-as-jungle.html
21. GLOW Fan & fellow GLOW Historian, Mike Rand: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/03/saturday-glowcase-celebrating-glow.html
22. Dementia #1/Sugar, Michelle Duze: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/03/the-many-faces-of-dementia-tribute-to.html
23. GLOW Fan, Vanessa Bello: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/03/saturday-glowcase-glow-of-friendship.html
24. Steve Blance, GLOW's writer and referee: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2025/03/saturday-glowcase-behind-ropes-steve.html

Bonus GLOW Posts:

My review of Hollywood, Jeanne Basone's book Hooray for Hollywood: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2024/12/hooray-for-hollywood-true-story-of.html

My book review of Glamazon: My Life of Glitter, Guts, and Glory by Matilda the Hun Deanna Booher: https://adriansknitwits.blogspot.com/2015/02/my-thoughts-of-glamazon-queen-kong-my.html

Each post shines a light on the incredible stories of GLOW’s cast and crew, as well as devoted fans who keep this legacy alive. Bookmark these links or dive into them as time permits—you won’t regret it!

I can’t tell you how much your continued support, comments and engagement mean to me. You are the heart and soul of what makes this blog special to me. If you’ve been inspired, entertained or informed by my posts, I’d love to hear from you! Your feedback fuels my passion and keeps me going strong.
Speaking of support, if you’d like to contribute to help this blog continue to thrive and grow, your kindness would mean the world. (Even a small token of appreciation goes a long way.) But above all, your presence here is already a gift in itself.

Stay tuned for next week’s "Saturday GLOWcase"—it’s going to be worth the wait, I promise! Until then, keep glowing brightly and making every day a showstopper.

With GLOWing gratitude,

~Adrian

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The Many Faces of Dementia: A Tribute to GLOW’s Michelle Duze

You ever watch something and think, "Wait a minute, something feels...off?" That was me when the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling season 3 began, after I had started watching GLOW around the end of season 2. I had barely scratched the surface of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling universe—catching just a few late-season episodes and some clips from those old-school VHS tapes they sold back in the day. I wasn’t exactly a superfan…yet.

The first episode of season 3. Dementia made her eerie return, complete with that familiar makeup and over-the-top gimmick. But something was different—I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. Was I imagining things? Was it just that a year had passed, or maybe my memory was playing tricks on me?
Spoiler alert: my hunch was spot on. It wasn’t just a slight shift—Dementia was completely different. That’s because the character had a whole new persona, played by someone else. And that revelation sent me down a rabbit hole to uncover the story of the original Dementia herself, Michelle Duze.

Michelle Duze wasn’t just any GLOW girl—she was the original Dementia, the unforgettable bad girl with an axe to grind (literally) and a uniquely childlike, brutal energy in the ring. After season 2 wrapped up, Michelle and a group of other wrestlers followed David McLane to Indianapolis. From there, they trained and hit the road under the banner of the Powerful Women of Wrestling (POWW).

By the time GLOW rolled into its third and fourth seasons, Michelle had already parted ways with the show. So, she never really got to know the newer cast members, including her own replacement, Nancy Daly, who stepped into the Dementia role after her departure. During her time with GLOW, Michelle’s versatility didn’t end with Dementia. She also played Sugar, the sweet Good Girl from New Orleans. And when she joined POWW, she leveled up by taking on even dual characters—becoming both the all-American patriot and Sasha, the fierce Russian competitor.

Here’s a fun behind-the-scenes twist: In GLOW at first, they tried to conceal Sugar’s true identity by giving her an enormous curly wig, hoping fans wouldn’t connect the dots. But eventually, they got more creative. A dramatic storyline involving the Heavy Metal Sisters burning Sugar’s face paved the way for her transformation into a masked character—a clever way to keep Michelle’s dual roles under wraps. Wrestling production wasn’t just about body slams—it was all about cost-effectiveness. They figured having one performer juggle two personas was easier than hiring another wrestler. Apparently, not not everyone fell for it, though. Hardcore fans could spot the similarities between Sugar’s and Dementia’s wrestling styles. While Sugar was more traditional, Dementia’s persona allowed Michelle to unleash a chaotic, almost childlike brutality in the ring.

Michelle was more than just a powerhouse in the ring—she was savvy behind the scenes, too. Rumors of shady dealings among GLOW’s producers and attorneys were no secret. Rather than signing her real name on contracts, Michelle pulled a genius move: she signed with aliases inspired by Disney characters. Talk about outsmarting the system!

Michelle also had some special connections with other GLOW stars. Ursula Hayden, who played Babe during season 3 and 4 and later on became the owner of GLOW, was a high school best friend of hers. Michelle actually introduced Ursula to GLOW during its second season. Also, Hollywood and Michelle had a shared history, working together at the Richard Simmons Anatomy Asylums in Glendale, CA. Hollywood’s boyfriend taught aerobics with Michelle. It was Hollywood who brought Michelle to the Riviera Hotel after the GLOW pilot was shot. Many girls share stories about their living conditions and roomates during their GLOW days. Michelle’s roommate during her Riviera days? None other than Matilda the Hun, played by Deanna Booher. Wrestling, as it turns out, was as much about friendships as it was about flying dropkicks.

Michelle wasn’t just handed the role of Dementia—she had to work hard to make it her own. The producers gave her a basic concept: a character inspired loosely by the tragic Lizzy Borden story. Beyond that, Michelle had the freedom to flesh out Dementia’s quirks and persona. Her entrance by being pushed out in a cage, the silence, the axe—those were all elements that evolved naturally as Michelle stepped into the character. GLOW had its fair share of challenges—there were creative disagreements, editing woes, and questionable management practices. But Michelle and her fellow wrestlers stuck together like a family, navigating the highs and lows of the wrestling world.

After leaving GLOW, Michelle joined David McLane’s new venture, a wrestling show, POWW which toured across the U.S. It was an exhilarating time, with the show following the WWF circuit during Hulk Hogan’s peak era. The only catch? GLOW owned the rights to its original characters, so everyone who joined McLane had to tweak their personas. Michelle left her wrestling career behind in the late 1980's but her legacy as the original Dementia remains unforgettable.

So there you have it—the fascinating, multi-layered story of Michelle Duze, the woman who first brought Dementia to life and left her mark on the wrestling world. Whether you remember her as the axe-wielding wild card or the sweet lady from New Orleans, Sugar, Michelle’s journey is a testament to the grit, creativity, and camaraderie that defined GLOW. What do you think of Michelle’s story? Did you know all these behind-the-scenes details, or did I just blow your mind? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts! And hey, if you enjoyed this trip down memory lane and want to support more stories like this, feel free to show some love in any way that feels right to you. Thanks for being part of this journey with me!

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Saturday GLOWcase: Godiva’s Glittering GLOW Journey: A Peek into Dawn Maestas’ Life

For fans of GLOW, Godiva needs no introduction. This unforgettable character, hailing from Coventry, England, captivated audiences as she rode into the ring on horseback. With her long blonde hair and fearless barefoot wrestling, Godiva, played by Dawn Maestas during seasons 3-4, exuded confidence and a touch of arrogance that perfectly captured the British flair.

As I've stated in the past, I became a fan of GLOW towards the end of the second season. When season 3 began to air, I caught the first episode and was completely awestruck by some of the newer characters added to the show. One in particular was a character from Coventry, England, who was led to the ring on a horse by a new character that looked like a sister of Chainsaw and Spike named Beastie. Godiva was beautiful, had long blond hair, and was one of a few GLOW wrestlers who wrestled barefoot, something that not many wrestlers are comfortable doing considering there would be no protection from foot or ankle injuries. I truly believed Godiva was from England and also believed her attitude and arrogance reflected upon the British people I'd known up to that point in my life as they had seemed very much like her. While she was not one of the characters that I connected with, I very much loved her ring persona as well as her signature moves like the Buckingham Bounce which she would occasionally use to cheat a little bit in her matches, though to hear Dawn's kayfabe recollection, she never cheated. lol.

My friend Manny with Godiva during the tour of GLOW

Before her days on GLOW, Dawn graduated from UNLV with a BFA in sculpture. Out of nowhere, her old friend Ann LeBree (who played the good girl Debbie Debutante during seasons 1 and 2) managed to track her down in the pre-internet era and offered her a chance to audition for a quirky TV show. Ann, who was slated to continue the role of Debbie Debutante in the third season but left before taping, thought Dawn would be perfect for the show. At the time, Dawn was waitressing in LA. Eager for a new adventure, she packed up her truck and headed back to Vegas. I would have LOVED to have seen the two childhood friends wrestle each other in singles matches. Their friendship would have made a great storyline, with the two having a rivalry turned friendship in the ring. It could have even tempted Godiva to turn face from heel to babyface during a match, perhaps in a tag-team scenario like Vicky Victory and Debbie Debutante vs. Beastie and Godiva. At least, that's how it would play out in my head.

Dawn didn’t even have to audition for GLOW. She met Matt Cimber and Jackie Stallone at La Scala, who hired her on the spot. Assigned the character Godiva, Dawn poured her heart into research and perfected a British accent. Her commute from Hollywood to Vegas became an opportunity to study dialect tapes and truly embody Godiva’s regal persona. She even convinced the show to let her ride an Arabian horse named General in several Las Vegas performances.

A recent pic of Dawn as Godiva. She's still got it!!!

Godiva’s presence in the ring was magnetic. Memorable moments included her dramatic showdown with Cheyenne Cher for the GLOW crown, where she initially lost her cool but eventually backed down to avoid suspension. Beyond the ring, Godiva hosted an advice show, dealt with prank calls from a pervert (voiced by Matt Cimber himself), and became one of the spokeswomen for Faberge Organics with the catchphrase, “The most important part of my wardrobe are Faberge Organics.” Inspired by Lady Godiva, she wore a peach-colored bodysuit adorned with flowers that gave her the appearance that she was nude under the flowers. She even appeared on Family Feud, where the GLOW cast faced off against WCW.

As GLOW’s final season approached, Dawn and Matt Cimber butted heads. Dawn says she got fired, but Matt says she quit. Either way, they both admit her outspoken nature caused some friction. Despite that, they patched things up later and even worked on another project together. Now, they’re close friends.

After GLOW, Dawn spent some time in Vegas before moving to California. The transition wasn’t easy, especially after going through a divorce and life as a single mom. Dawn, a third-degree black belt, has taught self-defense classes to women. She is an outreach pastor and artist and, unlike her beautiful yet cocky GLOW character, she's an absolute sweetheart. She hopes her legacy will be one of love, service, and joy despite life's challenges.

Dawn & General led to the ring by Beastie

Over the years, Dawn has also become a passionate advocate for animals in need. She works closely with an animal shelter in Orange County and has even recruited her former GLOW rival, Roxy Astor, to join the cause. Additionally, Dawn has developed a close friendship with Little Egypt, who appeared in 21 matches in the previous season of GLOW before Godiva made her debut.

I had the chance to meet Dawn and her son on the Queen Mary during a party in 2016. That night, I not only got to meet Dawn but was also treated to her in-ring persona of long ago—the bad girl Godiva. It was an unforgettable experience to see her bring that character to life once more, if only just for a few moments at a party. Dawn is one of two GLOW girls that I’ve met but never had the chance to get her autograph on any of my items or a photo. However, I do have an awesome selfie with her taken the night we met.

Dawn and I on the Queen Mary 2016

As we celebrate these incredible memories, I invite you to share your own stories and experiences of GLOW. 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 GLOW 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!

Saturday GLOWcase: Celebrating Angel - The Badass Biker Chick of GLOW

Angel, played by Andrea Laird Micheil, was a gymnast from the age of six through high school and a Theater Arts major in college. She was working with a casting firm, performing as an extra in various TV and film productions when she went to an audition for athletic women for GLOW.

At the audition, she asked, "What does GLOW mean?" When they said, "Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling," she replied, "I can do that." They asked, "What makes you think so?" and she said, "I don't have to land on my feet anymore." The rest is history. Shortly thereafter, she was in Las Vegas at the Riviera Hotel, and two weeks later, she was teaching girls how to do somersaults.

Unlike most of the ladies, Andrea created her own character. She knew she would be a bad girl, and her badass persona really fit the character she became. "Angel, don't let the name fool you!" became her tagline. She performed as Andrea Jackson (a good girl) for one fight in Germany and as Hot Rod Andie for various promotions, including POWW, another David McLane promotion. Andrea made her debut during the second season of GLOW and quickly realized that many of the girls had no athletic ability whatsoever. Just two weeks after arriving, she was literally teaching them how to do somersaults. Doing backflips off the top turnbuckle was no easy task for most, but for Andrea, it was a breeze. She wasn't a wrestling fan and had no idea how to wrestle; aside from learning moves by watching wrestling on TV, she and many of the other ladies would have been lost in the ring. TV was their trainer.

The ladies watched wrestling moves on TV and then tried to figure them out in their hotel rooms or during rehearsals before taping days. Andrea would come to the ring and start teaching the ladies wrestling moves she barely knew herself, but she had confidence in spades. Some of the season one girls knew a bit thanks to their brief time with Mondo Guerrero and were able to learn from them as well.

I started watching GLOW after Andrea had already left the promotion, but I had the pleasure of meeting her in 2016 on the Queen Mary. We spent a week on the Carnival Imagination with her and many other GLOW ladies. I not only learned about her wrestling career and the friendships it afforded her, but I also got to know the real person behind her GLOW persona and her incredibly sweet husband, Stephen.

The first night I met her was the only time I talked to her about GLOW. After that, I was more interested in Andrea than Angel. She was more than the badass biker chick; she was intelligent, outgoing, and one of those people who isn't happy until everyone around her is having a good time. The night we met, she shared with me insights about her time with GLOW and the fact that she was one of the people involved in "selling" the show to TV stations before it aired. She also talked about the fate of a few of her fellow wrestlers, including her GLOW & POWW tag team partner Attache/Genie Beret.

Andrea shared a story about Matt Cimber and David McLane giving the ladies the choice to vote on whether they should go on tour with the Harlem Globetrotters or a solo tour of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling. The show had just started airing, and they weren't yet well-known. Wrestling was becoming popular again, and characters were coming to life. Before the vote, Andrea gathered the girls and said, "If we want to be taken seriously as wrestlers, we should go on tour by ourselves." The Globetrotters, despite being good players, were more about comedy. They voted to go solo, but Matt Cimber wasn’t happy. That decision led to David McLane leaving GLOW and taking many of the ladies with him to start a new promotion while Matt continued GLOW with season 3 and 4, featuring a new cast and a handful from seasons 1 and 2.

Upon leaving GLOW, Andrea and the other GLOW ladies weren't allowed to use their GLOW names due to a tight contract. Andrea's character remained basically the same, though her name became Hot Rod Andie instead of Angel. Tina Ferrari was known as Nina, and some of the other GLOW ladies either used similar characters or created totally new ones. Michele Duze, who created the first Dementia in GLOW, played the Russian character in POWW.

She got yelled at for this but this is one of my favorite moments with Angel

After wrestling, Andrea did stunt work, acted in movies, and moved to Reno, NV, where she worked as a liquor sales rep. Sadly, Andrea passed away from Covid-19 on January 18, 2022. Andrea's presence in and out of the ring will be fondly remembered by all who encountered her unique persona.

As we reminisce about the legacy of Andrea "Angel" Laird Micheil, I invite you to share your own stories and memories of her. Whether you had the pleasure of meeting her in person, watched her dazzling performances, or were inspired by her strength and charisma, I would love to hear from you. Feel free to leave comments and share your cherished moments. Let's celebrate the life of this remarkable woman together!

Hooray for Hollywood!: The True Story of the Original GLOW Girl - A Memoir

Nashville, TN – Dec 27, 2024 – Step into the ring of 1980s professional wrestling with Hooray for Hollywood!, the captivating memoir of Jeanne "Hollywood" Basone, the first hired and original GLOW girl. This inspiring tale not only chronicles her life in wrestling but also unveils the behind-the-scenes scoop and the groundbreaking impact the internationally syndicated 80s hit TV series Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling had on women in sports entertainment.

In her memoir, Jeanne reflects on her childhood dreams and the aspirations that led her to audition for GLOW’s creator, David McLane, in 1985. This pivotal moment catapulted her into a cultural phenomenon, where she and her fellow GLOW girls broke barriers and shattered the glass ceiling for an entire generation of female wrestlers. With GLOW airing in over 100 major markets across the U.S. and broadcast internationally, Jeanne’s journey became a beacon of empowerment for women in the wrestling industry.

Featuring insights from fans, GLOW girls, rock ‘n’ roll rollers, award-winning producers, directors, and photographers, Hooray for Hollywood! offers a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate the evolution of women’s roles in professional wrestling and sports entertainment.

Jeanne has been a media darling, gracing the pages of esteemed publications such as The Hollywood Reporter, New York Post, Washington Post, Vanity Fair, and People magazine. She has also been featured in influential books on wrestling history, such as Sisterhood of the Squared Circle, and was named a “Lethal Woman” in her Playboy pictorial. Her journey has taken her around the globe for appearances, inspiring countless individuals with her story.

Join Jeanne in this incredible journey and discover how one woman’s story can ignite the spark of inspiration in us all.

"Fans of the squared circle, sensational behind-the-scenes storytelling, and all things pop culture will not want to miss one of the best memoirs ever written by a once-in-a-generation talent."
– A.J. Devlin, Screenwriter, author of award-winning “Hammerhead” Jed pro wrestler PI mystery novels.

"Hooray For Hollywood! will be enjoyed by book lovers, women’s wrestling fans, wrestlers, and industry professionals."
– Bob Harris, Writer and women’s professional wrestling archivist.

Hooray for Hollywood! will be available in bookstores in 2025 and online at Amazon and directly from Etsy store: glowhollywoodmerch.etsy.com.

For more information, to schedule an interview, or to request a review copy, contact: Jeanne Basone - jeannebasone@gmail.com jeannebasone.com

Saturday GLOWcase: Helena Cameron, AKA Daisy from GLOW

 

This weeks Saturday GLOWcase is all about the Awesome Daisy of GLOW. I chose Daisy for this week in honor of her upcoming birthday, December, 25. Happy Birthday Daisy, I hope you enjoy your day.

When I first saw Helena Cameron, who played Daisy on Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (GLOW), during her match in season 3, she instantly became one of my favorites. For nearly 30 years, I've admired her work, and I was thrilled when we became friends. Our time together at Knott's Berry Farm, shoe shopping, and hanging out on the Queen Mary are memories I cherish. Helena graciously shared her story years ago, and here's a refined version of her journey.

Helena as the awesome Daisy circa 2000

Helena Cameron's journey into the world of entertainment is unique and inspiring. Back in the late 1980s, she was working at Northrop but decided to take a leap of faith and switch to background work and extra roles in movies. One day, while filling out paperwork in a casting office, she had a chance encounter with Matt Cimber that changed everything. Matt came out of the back and asked if she wanted to be on a TV show. He asked if she wanted to join GLOW. Helena knew about the show because her ex's daughter watched it and always said she should be on it. Helena used to joke that if they pulled her hair, she’d get really pissed off. But the opportunity just kind of fell into her lap.

Matt gave her the details, and without hesitation, Helena and her friend Kell’e, who would become known as Beastie the Road Warrior, loaded up their car and headed to Las Vegas to sign up. Daisy, Helena's character, was created by either Matt or Steve. Daisy was pretty much your standard character: "You don't know where you live, you don't have any relatives, you don't know how old you are," Helena says. None of the wrestlers had characters when they arrived. Everyone wanted to be a beautiful, sexy someone. Helena jokes that she wanted to be a mermaid. No one wanted to be attached to a midget, especially one with a mole on her face, she laughs.

Daisy surrounded by the awesome ladies of GLOW

Helena's character started off as a “Bad Girl” doing the bidding of Gremlina, played by a woman half her size wearing snakeskin tights, a Gremlina-like hairstyle, and, as Helena stated, a huge mole on her face with hairs hanging from it. Daisy turned babyface when she turned on Gremlina, stuffing her into a trash can. But within the same season, she seemed to be back as a Bad Girl, though Helena perceives her more as a loner, someone on no one’s side. Daisy eventually became the GLOW champion during the season 4 finale, taking the crown from Cheyenne Cher. This was the final episode of all time. When GLOW ended, it was really sudden and unexpected. Helena and the other cast members didn’t find out until it was already over. They did a Pay Per View show featuring a few of the original GLOW girls along with new wrestlers who may have continued if the show had continued. Daisy’s last match was with Ninotchka during the Pay Per View, and she retained her crown. To this day, she is the current reigning Champion of GLOW.

Daisy's Family Feud Appearance

After GLOW ended, Helena went back to doing background work for a while. Eventually, she tried different jobs, including limo driving and stunt shows. Matt reached out to her again with a crazy request: "I want to blow you up in a box." She trusted him and went to Vegas to do a live stunt show at the Aladdin, where she reconnected with her friend Godiva.

Terry and I with Daisy at Knott's Berry Farm

Reflecting on her experiences, Helena acknowledges both the good and bad times. You're always treated horribly at one time or another in your life. Does the horrible outweigh the good? Sure, everyone has bad times. Helena had good times with Matt; she was fortunate. He was only bad to you if you let him be. They didn’t make any money, but it was an adventure. She met wonderful people and visited places she never would have otherwise.

Helena shared some insights into GLOW’s inner workings. They got their room and board, airfare, and a little per diem covered. During training, they made $100 a week for eight hours a day, and it went up to $250 a week when they started filming. They didn’t get residuals or any money from appearances like on Phil Donahue, which would have been SAG wages. Casinos recognized them because they looked so fake and ate there every day. They often got in trouble because they weren’t supposed to be around each other. The GLOW House was a house in Ventura. Helena's first roommate was Fiji. Later, she roomed with Godiva, Stinky, and Zelda. Eventually, Cher and Helena moved out of the GLOW apartments and got their own place.

Angel helping Daisy adjust the crown I presented to her

Since her GLOW days, Helena has embraced a new chapter in her life. She is now a proud mother of two beautiful children. She has also remained active in entertainment, popping up in episodes of shows like Pushing Daisies and Friends. Despite GLOW being all-female, Helena was also part of the “Transgender” choir featured in an episode of GLEE thanks to her beautiful Amazon-like stature.

Saturday GLOWcase: Cheyenne Cher: The Empowering Indian Princess and Cheerleader of GLOW Seasons 3 & 4

Continuing with Native American Heritage Month, this weeks Saturday GLOWcase features the Indian Princess of Season 3 and 4 of GLOW, Cheyenne Cher.

In the colorful and over-the-top world of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (GLOW), Cheyenne Cher, played by the talented Dee Walker, made her debut as the new Indian Princess after Little Feather left the show before season 3 began. Cheyenne Cher brought a blend of speed, agility, and cultural pride to the ring, captivating audiences with her powerful performances and charismatic personality.

Much like Little Feather, Cheyenne Cher's character was based on a stereotypical symbol of Native Americans. While it could be considered a caricature, Cheyenne Cher continued to serve as a symbol of empowerment and representation for Native American women. Her storylines often highlighted themes of resilience and determination, with opponents referencing oppression and exploitation of her people. Despite this, her character was not as much of a "jobber" as Little Feather though her first televised match, she did get a beat down and a splash down from Big Bad Mama.

In addition to her portrayal as the replacement Indian Princess, Cheyenne Cher became one half of the cheerleader tag team duo during seasons 3 and 4, teaming up with Vicky Victory after Debbie Debutante left the show. This dynamic duo brought new energy to the ring, combining athleticism with the spirit of cheerleading. Cheyenne Cher was the stronger of the two, allowing the cheerleaders to hold their own as a tag team, much to the delight of fans.

During the season 3 finale, Cheyenne Cher "won" the GLOW crown due to interference from Roxy Astor in a match with Godiva, and somehow, she held the title throughout season 4 until Daisy defeated her during the series finale. The legacy of Cheyenne Cher continues to be celebrated by GLOW fans, reminding us of the power of representation and the impact of strong, diverse characters in media. Cheyenne Cher will always be remembered as a character who brought pride and strength to the ring, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of GLOW fans.

Saturday GLOWcase: The GLOWing Journey of Little Feather🪶🌵🌄🔥🌿🎶🐻🌲🏹

🪶🌵🌄🔥🌿🎶🐻🌲🏹LITTLE FEATHER🪶🌵🌄🔥🌿🎶🐻🌲🏹

Little Feather entering the ring

In the spirit of National Native American Heritage Month, I am dedicating this week's Saturday GLOWcase to the first "Indian Princess" of GLOW, Little Feather. Admittedly, each time a match was announced featuring any wrestler with "Little" in their name, I would cringe, knowing there would likely be a serious beatdown, as the smaller wrestlers were usually paired up with opponents twice their size. Despite the unfair size advantage, Little Feather always brought her A-game to the ring, showcasing her resilience and skill.

One memorable match was between Little Feather and Ninotchka. Little Feather seemed ready to fight, but Ninotchka, played by Lori Palmer, showed that her character was not as sadistic as everyone thought. Lori brought a lot of humanity to her "bad girl" persona, showing mercy upon Little Feather. This unexpected twist highlighted the complexity of both characters and added depth to the storyline. Little Feather played her character exceptionally well, and despite another "Indian Princess" coming along in seasons 3 and 4, Little Feather's spirit and legacy could not be recreated.

Little Feather's contributions to GLOW were significant, as she represented strength, resilience, and cultural pride. Her character was more than just a wrestler; she was a symbol of empowerment for many viewers. Celebrating her during National Native American Heritage Month is a fitting tribute to her legacy and the impact she made both in and out of the ring.

Just a few months before joining GLOW, she was a homeless teenager living on the streets of Las Vegas, escaping an abusive childhood. She reconnected with Debbie Debutante, with whom she had previously been on the same gymnastics team. During their encounter, Debbie mentioned she was part of a show that needed someone to portray a character called Little Egypt.

When she met with David and Matt, they proposed several ideas for her role. One suggestion was to be a tag team partner for Spanish Red, potentially named Little Red, which she would have enjoyed, particularly being new to professional wrestling. Having a partner would have been advantageous, especially since Spanish Red was such an iconic figure in the ring. Ultimately, they chose Little Feather for her, noting her resemblance to a Native American character as a logical fit given they already had a Hawaiian character.

She was one of the few wrestlers who performed without boots, resulting in a foot injury during practice before the last show of the first season. While executing a monkey toss with Spike, the Heavy Metal Sister, she overshot the landing, resulting in her body weight crushing her foot. Despite the pain, she borrowed boots from one of the Headhunters for the final match featuring Little Egypt and Little Fiji versus the Heavy Metal Sisters.

Following her time with GLOW, she moved to Los Angeles where she pursued stunt work and appeared in minor roles as an extra in various films and TV shows. Her favorite experience was appearing in the graveyard scene with Penguin in "Batman Returns." She also appeared in an indie film called "Sex Crimes" (not a XXX film!) where she participated in a bar fight scene with her younger sister, who stood nearly six feet tall and would have been perfect for GLOW had she been older.

At barely eighteen, she deeply appreciated the perks of living at the Riviera Hotel, especially after experiencing homelessness and starvation. The free buffet and bar tab were especially welcomed, even though she wasn't yet twenty-one. She fondly recalls those times, bringing friends to the hotel, ordering pizza to her room, and signing for drinks like a high roller.

One particularly cherished memory is how she began living at the hotel. She quickly bonded with Sally the Farmer's Daughter and Scarlett the Southern Belle, who invited her to stay in their room when she had just moved out of her apartment and had nowhere to go. Eventually, she was given a room with Palestina, turning their stay into an extended slumber party filled with pillow fights and endless fun. She recently shared that she loves alternative music and fondly recalled Hollywood taking her to her first heavy metal concert, AC/DC.

She expresses immense gratitude to the fans for their continued love and support for GLOW. The show brought together a group of young women chasing their dreams and building lifelong friendships. She's always moved by how GLOW has positively impacted many lives, providing role models and an escape. She is particularly touched by fans who weren't even born when GLOW aired but discovered it through YouTube. The appreciation from fans means the world to her, and she thanks them all for their unwavering support.

If you would like to purchase episodes of GLOW on DVD, Blu-Ray or VHS, check out eBay for deals on NEW and media.

Saturday GLOWcase: Remembering Matilda The Unforgettable GLOW Villain

Deanna Booher as Matilda the Hun

Matilda's journey began with her friend Golden Kat (Charli Haynes) introducing her to the GLOW auditions. They were apartment-style wrestling buddies and did everything together. The idea of a television show combining comedy, music, and wrestling was a dream come true. Matt Cimber, the show's director, appreciated Deanna's creativity and excitement. She even contributed her "Raw Meat" song to the pilot.

Deanna's Book GLAMAZON Queen Kong

In Vegas, Deanna met all the original girls, including Tina Ferrari and Tammy Jones. Pepper, also known as Princess Jasmine, was their trainer. The pilot was a huge success at the NATPE television convention in New Orleans, securing funding for the first season. Auditions in LA brought in Fiji, leading to some debates over the show's image, but Matt knew the diverse cast was key to its success. The team trained and lived at the “classy” Riviera Hotel.

Matilda's wrestling persona, crafted by Matt, was born with a German accent, making her seem more evil. Her background as a professional dominatrix helped shape her fearsome yet humorous character. Inspired by Lynda Carter's Wonder Woman and Maureen O'Hara, Matilda blended fearsome and funny, priding herself on never actually harming anyone and being a skilled storyteller.

Despite the show's success, frustrations grew over injuries and management issues. After two seasons and the prospect of being sold to the Harlem Globetrotters, Matilda and others left GLOW for the newly formed POWW. Legal disputes with GLOW made it hard to succeed, but they had a great cast and some success. Deanna eventually returned to the fetish business, starting slam-o-grams, and pursued Hollywood auditions, appearing on shows like "Mama's Family" and "Married with Children."

Unfortunately, lifting men for slam-o-grams took a toll on her health, and Matilda had to let go of Hollywood and slam-o-grams. She focused on producing and directing, hiring other girls. I had the pleasure of meeting Deanna in 2016 and have to say that she was as funny in person as she was on TV and super sweet and very warm and generous. Matilda passed away on January 7, 2022, but her legacy as an unforgettable GLOW villain, and her impact on wrestling and entertainment remain cherished.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Hollywood, Jeanne Basone, for her invaluable help with this tribute to Matilda Deanna Booher. Hollywood was not only one of Matilda's co-stars during their time together on GLOW, but she also remained a loyal and loving friend to Matilda until her passing. Hollywood's unwavering support and friendship are a testament to the strong bonds formed within the GLOW family. Much love and appreciation to you, Hollywood, for your kindness and dedication.

 Check out eBay for great deals on NEW and used VHS & DVDs featuring episodes of GLOW

Saturday GLOWcase: Evangelina: From Hollywood Dreams to GLOW Superstardom

Christy Smith as Evangelina, the GLOW Preacher

In 1988, during the OP Surf Contest in Huntington Beach, CA, a huge riot broke out, grabbing national headlines as cop cars were flipped and chaos ensued. Interestingly, Christy Smith was down the street at a friend's house, enjoying a Corona on the front porch when millions of people swarmed the street. Little did she know, this chaotic event would be just one of the many wild experiences she’d encounter.

At the time, Christy was working as a delivery driver for Beach Auto Supply. She often drove around with a bumper sticker that read, "I Survived the 1986 Riot." Evangelina and her friends had sued the police department due to injuries sustained during the riot, and after a long class action lawsuit, she received a settlement. With dreams of doing something big, she moved to Hollywood and found herself in a studio apartment where the cast of "I Love Lucy" once stayed. The Golden Girls were filming there at the time, and she often saw them as they arrived at the studio across the street.

Skateboarding around Hollywood, Christy decided to pursue acting. She picked up a copy of the Drama-Log magazine, where she found auditions listed. After a mix-up with addresses, she ended up at an audition she hadn’t planned on attending. After securing headshots and body shots for $35 at the farmers market, she returned to the casting office. Thanks to her athletic background, she was offered a spot to train as a wrestler with GLOW, Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling. After a few months, she was cast as Evangelina, a good girl mingling with the bad girls, preaching repentance.

Evangelina & Hollywood

Performing in season three of GLOW, Evangelina brought her Roman Catholic upbringing and knowledge of other religions to the character. She even drew inspiration from televangelists like Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker. While it was a challenge to balance her spiritual beliefs with the character’s semi-evil persona, she embraced the role. Steve Blance, their writer, helped craft her character’s storyline and wrestling moves, making Evangelina a memorable part of GLOW history. Though she eventually left GLOW and moved on to other ventures, her time as Evangelina remains a cherished chapter of her life.

If you would like to purchase episodes of GLOW on DVD, Blu-Ray or VHS, check out eBay for deals on NEW and media.