LOS ANGELES – Chyna, the former WWE wrestler and reality TV star, was found dead in her L.A. home on Wednesday. She was 45.
The official cause of death is unknown. Chyna, whose real name is Joanie Laurer, was reportedly dead found in her Redondo Beach house. Her Facebook announced the news late Wednesday.
“It is with deep sadness to inform you today that we lost a true icon, a real life superhero. Joanie Laurer aka Chyna, the 9th wonder of the world has passed away. She will live forever in the memories of her millions of fans and all of us that loved her,” the post read.
Chyna appeared in several TV shows over the last two decades, including VH1’s “Surreal Life” and “Celebrity Rehab.” She also guest starred on “3rd Rock from the Sun” and “The Nick Cannon Show.” A larger-than-life figure, the wrestler and actress later posed for Playboy magazine before starring in several adult films, including “She-Hulk XXX.” She later moved to Japan to teach English.
“There’s a misconception out there in the media that I’ve become this monster,” she told Vice last year. “In the meantime, I’m just trying to get a job and live my life.”
