By Stone Cold Steve Austin, born Steven James Anderson on December 18, 1964, is one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history. Known for his rebellious persona, famous catchphrases like “Austin 3:16,” and legendary rivalries with Vince McMahon and The Rock, Austin captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. While his professional life has been widely celebrated, his personal life, particularly his relationships and marriages, has also drawn considerable attention.
This article explores the relationships and spouses of Stone Cold Steve Austin, shedding light on the women who played significant roles in his life.
First Marriage: Kathryn Burrhus (1990–1992)
Steve Austin’s first marriage was to Kathryn Burrhus, his high school sweetheart. The two tied the knot on November 24, 1990, after several years of dating. Their relationship seemed stable at first, rooted in the bond they had developed during their formative years in Edna, Texas.
However, the demands of Austin’s burgeoning wrestling career soon began to take a toll on their marriage. At the time, Austin was making his way up in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), often traveling and focusing on building his career. The constant distance and stress ultimately led to cracks in their relationship.
In 1992, the couple decided to part ways, marking the end of their two-year marriage. Despite the split, this chapter in Austin’s life served as a foundation for his later relationships and personal growth.
Second Marriage: Jeannie Clark (1992–1999)
Shortly after his divorce from Kathryn, Steve Austin married Jeannie Clark on December 18, 1992. Jeannie, also known as “Lady Blossom,” was a former professional wrestling valet and Austin’s manager during his early days in WCW.
Jeannie played a pivotal role in shaping Steve Austin’s career. She was the one who came up with the name “Stone Cold.” According to legend, Austin was struggling to decide on a ring name when Jeannie suggested “Stone Cold” after he drank a cup of tea that had gone cold. The moniker stuck and became an integral part of his wrestling persona.
The couple had two daughters together, Stephanie and Cassidy, adding a new dimension to Austin’s life as a father. While Austin’s career reached new heights during their marriage, with his move to the WWE (then WWF) and the rise of the “Stone Cold” persona, his personal life faced challenges.
The pressures of fame, a grueling work schedule, and the spotlight took their toll on the marriage. In 1999, after nearly seven years together, Austin and Jeannie divorced. Despite the split, Jeannie has spoken fondly of their time together and her role in his success.
Third Marriage: Debra Marshall (2000–2003)
Steve Austin’s third marriage was to Debra Marshall, a former WWE personality and valet. Known for her on-screen persona as the glamorous “Queen of WCW” and later as a WWE Diva, Debra brought star power and charisma to the wrestling world.
Austin and Debra started dating in the late 1990s and married on September 13, 2000. Their relationship was highly publicized due to their prominent roles in the wrestling industry. Fans were captivated by the union of two wrestling icons, and their on-screen appearances together often blurred the lines between fiction and reality.
However, their marriage was far from perfect. Reports of domestic disputes and personal struggles emerged, casting a shadow over their relationship. In 2002, Austin was arrested on charges of domestic abuse, following an incident involving Debra. He pleaded no contest and was sentenced to probation, a $1,000 fine, and mandatory counseling.
The couple divorced in 2003, bringing an end to a tumultuous chapter in Austin’s personal life. Debra later spoke publicly about the challenges they faced, emphasizing the importance of awareness and support for domestic violence survivors.
Fourth Marriage: Kristin Feres (2009–Present)
After several years of personal and professional ups and downs, Steve Austin found love again with Kristin Feres. The couple married in 2009 in a private ceremony, marking a new beginning for the wrestling legend.
Unlike his previous marriages, Austin’s relationship with Kristin has been notably low-profile. The couple has chosen to keep their personal life away from the media spotlight, focusing on building a strong and stable partnership.
Kristin has been a source of support and stability for Austin, particularly as he transitioned from his wrestling career to other ventures, including acting, podcasting, and hosting TV shows like Broken Skull Challenge. Austin has spoken warmly about Kristin in interviews, crediting her with helping him find balance and happiness in his personal life.
The Role of Relationships in Austin’s Life
Steve Austin’s relationships and marriages have been integral to his personal journey. Each of his spouses has played a role in shaping his life and career, whether through direct involvement in his professional endeavors or by influencing his growth as an individual.
While his earlier marriages were marked by challenges and public scrutiny, Austin’s union with Kristin Feres appears to have brought him a sense of peace and fulfillment. Their decision to keep their relationship private reflects a desire to focus on what truly matters, away from the distractions of fame.
Lessons Learned from a Public Life
Austin’s personal life offers valuable insights into the complexities of balancing a high-profile career with personal relationships. His experiences underscore the importance of communication, mutual support, and understanding in maintaining a healthy partnership.
Moreover, his journey highlights the challenges of living in the public eye, where personal struggles are often magnified and scrutinized. Despite these difficulties, Austin has demonstrated resilience and a willingness to learn from his experiences, both in and out of the ring.
Conclusion
Stone Cold Steve Austin is a wrestling icon whose legacy extends far beyond the squared circle. While his professional achievements have earned him a place in the annals of wrestling history, his personal life, marked by love, challenges, and growth, provides a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend.
From his early days with Kathryn Burrhus to his current marriage to Kristin Feres, Austin’s relationships reflect the highs and lows of a life lived in pursuit of greatness. Through it all, he has emerged as a symbol of perseverance, proving that even the toughest personas have a human side.
As fans continue to celebrate his contributions to wrestling, they can also appreciate the personal journey that has shaped the man known as “Stone Cold.” In many ways, his story is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the pursuit of happiness, both inside and outside the ring.
