When wrestling fans hear the name “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, they think of beer cans, broken glass, and the rattlesnake persona that defined WWE’s Attitude Era. But long before the fame, the championships, and the millions of fans, there was Kathryn Burrhus—the high school sweetheart who stood beside him at the very beginning of his journey.
Kathryn Burrhus remains one of the most private figures connected to wrestling royalty. While Austin’s later marriages made headlines—including his relationship with Debra Marshall, which involved domestic violence allegations—Burrhus chose a path of quiet dignity away from the spotlight . Their brief marriage lasted only two years, from 1990 to 1992, yet it represents a significant chapter in Austin’s personal history .
This article explores the life of Kathryn Burrhus, her relationship with one of wrestling’s biggest icons, and why she chose to disappear from public view after their divorce.
Quick Facts About Kathryn Burrhus
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kathryn Burrhus |
| Date of Birth | August 29, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Austin, Texas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Known For | First wife of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin |
| Marriage to Steve Austin | November 24, 1990 |
| Divorce Date | August 7, 1992 |
| Children | None |
| Current Status | Private life, away from public eye |
*Sources: *
Who Is Kathryn Burrhus?
Kathryn Burrhus is best known as the first wife of WWE legend Steve Austin, who later became the iconic “Stone Cold.” Born on August 29, 1952, in Austin, Texas, she has always been described as a reserved, thoughtful, and independent person .
Unlike many people connected to celebrities, Kathryn never sought to capitalize on her association with Austin. She has given no interviews, written no tell-all books, and made no public appearances to discuss her former marriage . Her decision to live a completely private life makes her unique in an era where oversharing has become the norm.
Early Life in Texas
Kathryn grew up in central Texas, where she enjoyed a modest upbringing. She attended Edna High School, where she was known as a kind and conscientious student who valued her friendships and studies .
Her early life in Texas gave her a strong foundation that helped her remain grounded—even when her life briefly touched the world of professional wrestling stardom. Those who knew her during her youth describe her as someone who always preferred simplicity and privacy over attention .
Meeting Steve Austin: High School Sweethearts
The story of Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin begins at Edna High School in Texas. When Austin was a freshman, he met Kathryn, who was then a junior . The future wrestling star was immediately smitten.
In his memoir The Stone Cold Truth, Austin recalled being captivated by her intelligence and beauty. He didn’t believe he had a chance with her because she was two years older, but he devised a plan to get to know her better .
“This girl played tennis, and the tennis coach, who I knew from playing sports and just goofing around and being friendly, asked me and my friend, Michael Rab, to come out and play tennis,” Austin wrote. “Just by playing tennis and being around the tennis courts, I got a chance to meet Kathy” .
The two began dating that year and became inseparable. During a 2013 appearance on Larry King Now, Austin revealed that his first kiss was with Kathryn when he was seventeen .
Their Marriage and Early Years Together
Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin dated for several years before tying the knot on November 24, 1990, in a quiet ceremony with family and close friends .
At the time, Austin was just beginning his wrestling career. He had attended Wharton Junior College in Texas on a football scholarship while Kathryn pursued her degree at Southwest Texas University . Upon her graduation, Austin received a full football scholarship to North Texas, and the couple moved in together .
According to Austin’s memoir, they had a good relationship for about ten years before wrestling became a major factor in their marriage. “We were good for 10 years. Then I got this wrestling bug, and Kathy was not a wrestling fan. That was the beginning of the end for us,” Austin wrote .
The Divorce: Why the Marriage Ended
Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin’s marriage lasted less than two years. They divorced on August 7, 1992 .
Several factors contributed to their split:
The Pressure of Austin’s Wrestling Career
Austin’s demanding schedule was a significant strain on the marriage. The wrestling world required constant travel, long hours, and a lifestyle that put immense pressure on their young relationship . Kathryn, who valued stability and privacy, found herself caught in the fast-moving current of her husband’s rising career.
Austin’s Infidelity
Multiple sources indicate that Austin was unfaithful during his marriage to Kathryn. He reportedly had an extramarital affair with his colleague Jeanie Clarke (later known as Lady Blossom), who would become his second wife . The affair put a significant strain on the marriage and contributed to its end.
No Children Together
Unlike Austin’s subsequent marriages, Kathryn and Steve did not have any children together. Their brief marriage ended without expanding their family.
Interestingly, Austin would marry Jeanie Clarke just months after his divorce from Kathryn—on December 18, 1992, only four months after their split was finalized .
Life After Divorce: Choosing Privacy Over Fame
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Kathryn Burrhus’s story is what happened after her divorce. She completely disappeared from public view.
Unlike many people who have connections to celebrities, Kathryn never attempted to monetize her association with Austin. She didn’t write a book, give interviews, appear on reality shows, or sell her story to tabloids .
Her decision to maintain a private life suggests a person who values her own sense of identity and independence. As one article notes, “her decision to remain private makes her story unique and memorable in a culture obsessed with oversharing” .
What Is Kathryn Burrhus Doing Now?
Little is known about Kathryn’s current life. She has stayed away from social media, public events, and media attention . Some rumors suggest she may be involved in community volunteer work or small business ventures, but nothing has ever been confirmed .
She reportedly continues to live in Texas, maintaining the quiet life she has always preferred .
Kathryn Burrhus Net Worth
Because Kathryn has remained out of the spotlight, little is known about her financial situation. Unlike some ex-spouses of celebrities who receive large settlements, Kathryn has never publicly discussed the terms of her divorce.
Estimates of her net worth range from $200,000 to $1 million, though these figures are purely speculative . Some sources estimate her net worth closer to $500,000 . What is clear is that she has not pursued public opportunities to increase her visibility or income .
In contrast, her ex-husband Steve Austin has an estimated net worth of approximately $50 million .
How Kathryn Compares to Austin’s Other Wives
Kathryn Burrhus is just one of four women Steve Austin has married. Her story differs significantly from his later marriages:
Jeanie Clarke / Lady Blossom (1992-1999)
- Austin’s second wife and a fellow wrestler/manager
- Credited with coining the “Stone Cold” nickname
- Had three children with Austin (including an adopted daughter)
- Divorced in 1999
Debra Marshall (2000-2003)
- Austin’s third wife and a wrestling manager
- Marriage ended amid domestic violence allegations
- Austin pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor assault charge in 2002
Kristin Feres / Kristin Austin (2009-Present)
- Austin’s current wife
- Married since 2009, his longest-lasting marriage
- Lives a private life away from the spotlight
Interesting Facts About Kathryn Burrhus
- She inspired Austin’s romantic side in his youth. Austin later said his first kiss was with Kathryn when he was seventeen .
- She was present during Austin’s early wrestling days. Kathryn supported Austin as he transitioned from a college athlete into a professional wrestler working independent circuits and WCW .
- She never spoke publicly about her marriage. Despite years of public interest, she has maintained complete silence about her relationship with Austin.
- She is significantly older than her ex-husband. Born in 1952, Kathryn is 12 years older than Austin, who was born in 1964 .
- She shares a birthday with another famous figure. She was born on August 29, 1952, the same date as celebrity chef Rachael Ray (though Ray was born in 1968) .
Kathryn Burrhus’s Legacy in Wrestling History
Even though Kathryn Burrhus never appeared in a wrestling ring, her name remains connected to one of the most iconic figures in sports entertainment history.
As Steve Austin’s first wife, she was part of his life before he became “Stone Cold”—before the fame, the championships, and the legendary rivalries with The Rock, Vince McMahon, and Bret Hart .
Her role in Austin’s early journey offers fans a glimpse into the man behind the character, the person he was before the “Texas Rattlesnake” persona took over. As one writer noted, “she is remembered because she was part of Steve Austin’s early life and personal journey before he became the famous ‘Stone Cold’ wrestling icon” .
In a world where everyone connected to fame seems to seek more attention, Kathryn Burrhus stands out for her decision to walk away and build a life of quiet dignity. Her story is a reminder that not all lives connected to celebrities are defined by fame—sometimes the most powerful choice is simply to remain true to oneself.
Conclusion
Kathryn Burrhus may always be remembered as Steve Austin’s first wife, but her life story shows that she is much more than just that title. From her modest upbringing in Texas to her decision to live privately after her divorce, Kathryn has demonstrated strength, independence, and authenticity .
While Austin’s career brought him into stadiums filled with thousands of screaming fans, Kathryn chose a path of quiet fulfillment away from fame. Her story is a testament to the many individuals who, while not in the public eye, contribute to the rich tapestry of human experience .
In an era where everyone seems eager to share their lives online, Kathryn Burrhus is refreshingly different. She chose privacy over publicity, dignity over drama, and independence over attention. Her quiet life speaks volumes about her character—a woman who knew when to step out of the spotlight and build a life on her own terms .
As we look back at the history of the 1990s wrestling boom, Kathryn Burrhus stands as a silent but significant figure in the narrative of the Texas Rattlesnake—the woman who loved the man before he became the legend .
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kathryn Burrhus?
Kathryn Burrhus is best known as the first wife of WWE legend Stone Cold Steve Austin. She was born on August 29, 1952, in Austin, Texas, and married Austin on November 24, 1990. She has lived a completely private life since their divorce .
When did Kathryn Burrhus marry Steve Austin?
She married Steve Austin on November 24, 1990, during the early years of his wrestling career .
Why did Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin divorce?
The couple divorced on August 7, 1992. The primary reasons were the pressures of Austin’s wrestling career, frequent travel, and his relationship with Jeanie Clarke, who would become his second wife .
Did Kathryn Burrhus have children with Steve Austin?
No, Kathryn and Steve Austin did not have any children during their marriage .
What is Kathryn Burrhus doing now?
She lives a private life away from the public eye. While some rumors suggest she may be involved in community work or small business ventures, she has avoided media attention since her divorce .
What is Kathryn Burrhus’s net worth?
Her exact net worth is unknown. Estimates range from $200,000 to $1 million, though these figures are speculative since she has not shared financial information publicly .
Why is Kathryn Burrhus remembered in wrestling history?
She is remembered because she was part of Steve Austin’s early life before he became the famous “Stone Cold” wrestling icon .
How long was Kathryn Burrhus married to Steve Austin?
Their marriage lasted approximately two years, from November 24, 1990, to August 7, 1992 .
