Bruno Sammartino, an Italian-American professional wrestler, was married to his wife, Carol Sammartino, for nearly six decades.
Carol Sammartino was the devoted wife of Bruno Sammartino, one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history.
Their nearly 60-year marriage was a cornerstone of Bruno’s life, with Carol providing steadfast support through his wrestling successes, challenges, and personal milestones.
Carol married Bruno in 1959, the same year he began his professional wrestling career.
Their relationship was rooted in the values of loyalty and dedication.
The couple settled in Ross Township, Pennsylvania, just outside of Pittsburgh, in 1965—a home they maintained for the rest of their lives.
Carol and Bruno had three sons: David, Danny, and Darryl.
Despite Bruno’s demanding schedule, Carol was committed to creating a stable home environment for their children.
She managed the challenges of raising a family while her husband became a global superstar.
Bruno faced numerous physical and professional challenges throughout his career, and Carol was always by his side.
She supported him during his recovery from a severe neck injury in 1976 and other health complications.
Bruno often spoke about Carol’s role as his pillar of strength, attributing much of his resilience to her steady presence and encouragement.
In the 1990s, Carol stood by Bruno during estrangement from their son, David, who had briefly followed in his father’s wrestling footsteps.
Despite this challenging time, Carol’s dedication to her family never wavered, and she remained a loving mother and grandmother to their four grandchildren.
Following Bruno’s retirement from full-time wrestling in 1981, Carol continued to support him as he navigated the shifting landscape of professional wrestling.
Bruno became a vocal critic of the direction the wrestling industry took, specifically objecting to the increased emphasis on sensationalism and drug use.
Carol supported his decision to distance himself from WWE during those years and celebrated with him when they reconciled in 2013, leading to his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame.
After Bruno’s death in April 2018, Carol continued to live in the Pittsburgh area, honoring her husband’s memory and legacy.
While she has largely stayed out of the public eye, fans of Bruno Sammartino recognize Carol as an essential part of his life story.
Although Carol Sammartino was not a public figure, her influence on Bruno’s life and career was profound.
Her commitment to family, privacy, and loyalty was a defining feature of her life with Bruno.
The Immigrant Who Defied the Odds to Become Wrestling’s Greatest Legend
Bruno Sammartino, born on October 6, 1935, in Italy, rose from poverty to become one of professional wrestling’s greatest legends.
After surviving the German occupation of Italy during World War II, Bruno and his family immigrated to the United States in 1950, settling in Pittsburgh.
He began his wrestling career in 1959 and quickly earned recognition with titles like “The Italian Strongman” and “The Living Legend.”
His powerful bearhug finishing move became iconic, solidifying his reputation.
In 1963, Sammartino defeated Buddy Rogers in 48 seconds to capture the WWF World Heavyweight Championship, beginning an unprecedented 2,803-day reign.
His time as champion transformed him into a top attraction at Madison Square Garden.
Bruno held the title for a second reign in 1973, lasting another 1,237 days before stepping back from the ring.
Sammartino’s post-retirement years were marked by his vocal criticism of the wrestling industry’s changes, but in 2013, he mended fences with WWE and was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Carol Sammartino’s enduring partnership with Bruno was a critical element of his career and life, offering a quiet but powerful influence that helped shape his legacy.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Upon moving to Pittsburgh in 1950, Bruno faced bullying at school due to his poor health but turned to weightlifting and wrestling to transform himself.
- Sammartino set a world record in the bench press in 1959 with a 565-pound lift, which he performed without elbow or wrist wraps, showcasing his strength and discipline.
- His strongman feats caught the attention of Pittsburgh sportscaster Bob Prince, leading to an introduction to professional wrestling, where he would become a legend.
