Captain Lou Albano, pro wrestling manager, dies

Captain Lou Albano, the charismatic professional wrestler who appeared in several Cyndi Lauper music videos, including "Girls Just Want To Have Fun," has died. He was 76.

World Wrestling Entertainment confirmed the death Wednesday on its Web site. He was under hospice care at his home before his death.

Albano began performing with WWE in the 1970s and was inducted into its hall of fame in 1996. He began his wrestling career in Canada in 1953.

Albano expanded his fan base greatly when he played Lauper's father in the video for her hit single "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" in the early days of MTV in 1983. He later claimed to be the catalyst for her success, according to WWE.

He was most notable in professional wrestling for playing a wrestling manager character later in his career. His trademark Hawaiian shirts, rubberbanded beard, and memorable speaking style helped make him a larger-than-life character.

His fame went on to include staring in television programs such as kids' television show The Super Mario Bros. Super Show, as well as movies.

Albano released an autobiography in 2008 titled Often Imitated, Never Duplicated: Captain Lou Albano with a foreword by Cyndi Lauper.

Charity organization Wrestlers Rescue is raising money to help the family pay for Albano's medical expenses.

This story incorporates content from KPCC's wire services.