Jim Ross balances fame and fatherhood, cherishing the bond with his kids and granddaughters.
James William Ross, better known to wrestling fans as “Good Ol’ JR,” stands as one of professional wrestling’s most iconic voices.
Born on January 3, 1952, Ross has built an extraordinary career spanning over four decades in the wrestling industry.
His distinctive Oklahoma drawl has narrated countless historic moments, earning him the reputation as the greatest wrestling commentator of all time.
Ross began his journey in the early 1980s as a play-by-play announcer for Mid-South Wrestling before advancing to the National Wrestling Alliance and eventually joining the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) in 1993.
His voice became synonymous with WWE’s wildly successful Attitude Era, where his passionate calls enhanced legendary matches and moments.
Beyond the commentary booth, Ross has served in executive roles, been inducted into multiple wrestling halls of fame, and established himself as a successful entrepreneur with his J.R.’s Family BBQ brand of barbecue sauce and beef jerky.
Currently, Ross brings his expertise to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) as both a commentator and senior advisor, continuing to contribute to the industry he has helped define.
Jim Ross’ Kids Are His Greatest Pride
Behind Jim Ross’s public persona lies a devoted family man. Ross is the father of two daughters from his previous marriages.
While he maintains a relatively private stance regarding his family life, it’s clear that his daughters and two granddaughters hold a special place in his heart.
One of his daughters, Amanda Ross Anderson, has established her own career path in Oklahoma.
Amanda currently serves as the Owner/Operator of Ritual Cannabis Tulsa, a position she has held since January 2024.
Her professional background includes roles as a Strategic Account Manager at Brief Media and an Advertising Sales Manager at Endeavor Business Media, showcasing her business acumen.
Ross’s other daughter, Kasi Ketcher, has pursued a career in healthcare. She works as a Nurse Practitioner in Tulsa, Oklahoma, having been in the medical field for over nine years.
Kasi graduated in 2016 and holds her Nurse Practitioner license in Oklahoma.
Family has become increasingly important to Ross, especially following the tragic loss of his wife Jan in 2017.
Jan, whom Ross married in 1993 after being introduced by wrestling legend Ric Flair, passed away at age 55 following a Vespa accident that caused catastrophic brain injuries.
This devastating loss has likely strengthened Ross’s bond with his daughters and granddaughters.
Despite his continued dedication to wrestling, Ross has expressed interest in scaling back his professional commitments to spend more time with his family.
With my wonderful daughters, Kasi & Amanda at a @WWE Okla event in 2000. Blessed to have 2 happy/healthy kids. pic.twitter.com/KRn3Db9dEw
— Jim Ross (@JRsBBQ) May 27, 2017
He often shares photographs and memories of time spent with his daughters and granddaughters on social media, demonstrating the joy and pride he takes in these family connections.
As Ross continues to face health challenges, including multiple cancer battles, the support of his family remains crucial.
In May 2025, Ross announced his diagnosis with colon cancer, requiring surgery. Throughout his health struggles and illustrious career, his daughters have remained a constant source of strength and support for the beloved wrestling personality.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Jim Ross is an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation, with ancestry tracing back to family members who arrived in Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears.
- During his high school years at Westville High School, Ross was quite accomplished – he won the Oklahoma FFA Speech Championship in both 1968 and 1969, and served as student body president.
- Jim Ross has Bell’s palsy, which can temporarily paralyze his facial muscles. He first experienced symptoms on January 30, 1994, and has had multiple bouts with the condition throughout his career.
