The wrestling and entertainment world is saddened to learn of the news that Tom Lister Jr., otherwise known as Zeus in professional wrestling circles, has passed away. He was 62 years old.
The report of Lister's death was first broken by TMZ and WWE has now confirmed the news as well, saying, "WWE is saddened to learn that Tom "Tiny" Lister, known as Zeus to the WWE Universe, passed away today at age 62."
Zeus first appeared as part of the 1989 film "No Holds Barred." It was one of Hulk Hogan's first feature films and Zeus was the takeaway character from the movie. He was so menacing and popular that WWE brought him in as an on-screen character and he and Hogan began a rivalry in the then-WWF. Zeus teamed with the “Macho Man” Randy Savage to try and take down Hogan in the main event of SummerSlam 1989, but among the most memorable moments for the character was during the Survivor Series in 1989 when he was part of Ted DiBiase’s Million Dollar Team, and bested The Hulkster.
There was a time that Bret Hart was asked if ever an actor who joined wrestling had the tools to make it in the business, Lister was his answer. Zeus also had a short-lived run in WCW as Z-Gangsta and he once again feuded with Hogan and Randy Savage.
Lister also grew in popularity playing Deebo on the movie“Friday” with Chris Tucker and Ice Cube. He also had roles in films like "The Fifth Element," "The Dark Knight," and "Zootopia."
The Cause of Death Unknown
TMZ reports the police were called on Thursday just before 3 pm Pacific time regarding an unconscious male. Lister was pronounced dead on the scene and there is no word yet on the cause of death.
Our sincerest condolences go out to the friends and family of Lister Jr. His wrestling run wasn't long, but it certainly was memorable.
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