Brooke Hogan Expresses Haunting Regret: ‘I Could Have Saved You’ After Hulk Hogan’s Death

Brooke Hogan’s Heartfelt Regret After Hulk Hogan’s Passing

Brooke Hogan, daughter of the iconic wrestling star Hulk Hogan, recently shared a deeply emotional reflection on her father’s death. Nearly a year after the WWE legend passed away, Brooke revealed the haunting regret she carries, expressing a profound wish that she could have saved him. The pain of loss is compounded by their estranged relationship, leaving Brooke with unanswered questions and a heavy heart.

In an intimate conversation, Brooke said, “I talk to my dad every day and… I’m like, ‘What in the heck were you doing? I just wish I was there because you would still be here today.’ I have this feeling in me that, like, I could have saved you.” Despite this yearning, she acknowledged the painful reality, “If love would have saved you, you’d be alive today because of how much love I have for him.” This raw honesty highlights the complexity of grief when combined with unresolved family dynamics.

The Struggles of Estrangement and Unanswered Questions

At the time of Hulk Hogan’s death on July 24, 2025, Brooke and her father were estranged. The wrestling icon, born Terry Gene Bollea, died at age 71 following a cardiac event at his Florida home. Brooke revealed that their relationship had been strained for years, with many difficult conversations left unspoken.

“I tried even when he was alive. I tried to have conversations, and he was like, ‘I’m not talking about that.’… He didn’t ever want to be soft,” Brooke shared. This emotional distance left her with lingering insecurities and a sense of loss beyond just his passing. She expressed frustration over never getting the chance to ask the questions she longed to hear answers for.

Despite this, Brooke maintains a spiritual connection with her father, often speaking to him and finding solace in the bond they shared. She posted a poignant black-and-white illustration on social media showing Hulk Hogan holding her in his arms, captioned simply, “If my love could have saved you, you would have lived forever.” This tribute underscores the enduring love that survived even their estrangement.

Balancing Grief and Career: Brooke Hogan’s Journey Forward

Brooke’s grief has also influenced her professional life, particularly while filming the latest season of HGTV’s “Rock the Block.” The reality show, which features celebrity-designer duos competing in home renovations, has become a platform where Brooke channels both her pain and resilience.

She reflected on the challenge of feeling misunderstood by her father regarding her achievements. “I don’t think he ever really understood the business that I had built… I don’t really think he fully understood just how hard it was to build from the ground up with nobody’s help by myself,” Brooke said. Securing a spot on “Rock the Block” was a significant milestone for her, symbolizing the success she carved out independently.

Brooke’s teammate, real estate expert Scott McGillivray, acknowledged the emotional weight she carried during filming. “Being human is also a big part of what this is,” he said, describing their early conversations as therapeutic. Their partnership went beyond design and construction, highlighting personal growth and healing.

Outside of her career, Brooke has built a fulfilling life. She married retired NHL player Steven Oleksy in 2022, and the couple welcomed twins in January 2025. Brooke also launched her interior design firm, BB Designs by Brooke, in 2018, further establishing her identity beyond her famous family name.

Reflecting on Love, Loss, and Healing

Brooke Hogan’s story is a poignant reminder of the complexities that come with losing a loved one, especially when the relationship was fraught with difficulties. Her candid reflections reveal how grief can intertwine with regret, love, and the hope for healing.

Though she wishes she could have saved her father, Brooke’s journey shows that love endures beyond loss. Her willingness to speak openly about her pain and growth offers inspiration to others facing similar struggles. As she continues to honor Hulk Hogan’s memory, Brooke also embraces her own path forward—balancing remembrance with resilience.

What Brooke Would Say to Her Father Today

If given the chance to speak to her father now, Brooke said she would tell him, “I’m so glad you’re out of pain.” She recognizes the immense suffering he endured and finds comfort in the belief that he is finally free from it.

Brooke also expressed a desire for a deeper connection, saying, “If he showed up today, I would just be like, ‘I love you so much, and I wish you would have just let me in.’” This heartfelt statement encapsulates the enduring hope for reconciliation, even after death.

Conclusion

Brooke Hogan’s emotional journey following Hulk Hogan’s death is a powerful testament to the enduring bonds of family, the pain of estrangement, and the healing power of love. Her story encourages us to cherish our relationships and communicate openly before it’s too late. If you found Brooke’s story moving, stay connected for more inspiring stories of resilience and personal growth. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!