Kathryn Burrhus is best remembered as the first wife of WWE legend Steve Austin, famously known as “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. Long before Austin became a global icon in professional wrestling, Kathryn was a part of his early life and dreams. Their relationship began as high school sweethearts, blossomed into marriage in 1990, but ended in divorce just two years later. Though her time in the spotlight was brief, Kathryn’s story has intrigued wrestling fans curious about the life of the woman who once stood beside one of the most celebrated wrestlers in history.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Kathryn Burrhus |
Known For | First wife of WWE legend Steve Austin |
Date of Birth | October 27, 1962 |
Birthplace | Austin, Texas, United States |
Nationality | American |
Height | 1.7 m (5 ft 7 in) |
Spouse | Steve Austin (m. 1990 – div. 1992) |
Marriage Duration | 2 years |
Children | None with Steve Austin |
Famous As | High school sweetheart and first wife of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin |
Current Status | Living a private, low-profile life |
Notable Fact | Supported Steve Austin during his early wrestling career |
Early Life and Background
Kathryn Burrhus was born on October 27, 1962, in Austin, Texas, United States. Growing up in the vibrant city of Austin, she experienced the warmth of Texan culture, which emphasized close-knit communities, family values, and sports enthusiasm. Not much is publicly documented about her parents or siblings, as Kathryn has chosen to live a private life. However, her Texas roots gave her a strong identity, and her early years helped shape her into a grounded and supportive woman, perfectly suited for her role in Steve Austin’s early career.
Kathryn Burrhus’s Birthplace and Family Roots
Being born in Austin, Texas, Kathryn was part of a region with deep ties to sports, wrestling, and entertainment. Austin was known for its thriving local culture, which celebrated athleticism and strong personalities. These surroundings may have played a role in her attraction to Steve Austin, who would later dominate the wrestling world with his bold persona. Kathryn’s family background remains largely private, reflecting her lifelong choice to stay away from media attention, even after her marriage to a future superstar.
Education and Personal Interests
Education was an important part of Kathryn’s early life. While detailed information about her schooling is scarce, it is known that she and Steve Austin met during their high school years in Texas. Kathryn was described as intelligent, supportive, and deeply caring. Her interests leaned more toward living a quiet, balanced life rather than chasing fame. These personal qualities would later define her relationship with Austin, as she offered emotional support while he pursued his wrestling ambitions.

Meeting Steve Austin: The High School Sweetheart Story
The story of Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin began in high school, where the two first met and quickly grew close. Their relationship blossomed into a youthful romance that carried into adulthood. Kathryn became Austin’s first love and one of the most important influences during his formative years. Friends and those who knew them described their relationship as genuine, with Kathryn serving as a source of stability as Austin navigated the uncertain path of becoming a professional wrestler.
The Love Story of Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin
As high school sweethearts, Kathryn and Steve Austin shared dreams, challenges, and milestones that shaped their early adult lives. Austin was passionate about sports and later shifted his focus to wrestling. Kathryn was by his side during this transition, offering the encouragement and emotional support that any aspiring athlete needs. Their bond eventually led them to marriage, a step that signified their commitment to building a future together.
Marriage to Steve Austin in 1990
On November 24, 1990, Kathryn Burrhus married Steve Austin, marking a significant chapter in both their lives. At the time, Austin was just beginning his professional wrestling career, which meant long hours of training, traveling, and limited stability. Kathryn’s role as his wife was crucial, as she provided a sense of home and balance during the early days of his career. Their wedding symbolized a love story rooted in youth, loyalty, and hope for the future.
Life as the Wife of an Aspiring Wrestler
Being married to a wrestler in the early stages of his career was not easy. Kathryn Burrhus faced the challenges of living with an ambitious husband who was determined to succeed in a highly competitive industry. Austin was constantly training, traveling, and working to establish his name in professional wrestling. Kathryn managed these challenges with quiet resilience, understanding that success required sacrifice. However, the demanding lifestyle put pressure on their relationship, and their marriage began to face cracks just a few years later.
Role in Steve Austin’s Early Wrestling Career
Although she never pursued fame herself, Kathryn Burrhus’s role in Steve Austin’s early career cannot be overlooked. She was the supportive partner who stood by him during his transition into professional wrestling. When Austin wrestled under the name “Stunning Steve Austin” in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), Kathryn provided encouragement during those early matches. Though she remained behind the scenes, her presence helped Austin stay motivated as he worked toward becoming one of the biggest names in wrestling history.
Public Perception of Their Relationship
During their marriage, Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin kept a relatively low profile. Wrestling fans at the time knew little about Austin’s personal life, as his fame had not yet skyrocketed. However, those who later learned about his first marriage often saw Kathryn as an important figure in Austin’s journey—someone who believed in him before the world recognized his greatness. Their relationship may not have lasted, but it is still remembered as a foundational part of Austin’s story.
Challenges in Their Marriage
Like many young couples, Kathryn and Steve Austin faced challenges that tested their relationship. Austin’s growing career meant long periods away from home, while Kathryn preferred a more private, stable life. Reports suggest that personal differences and the pressures of Austin’s career contributed to the breakdown of their marriage. Despite their strong start as high school sweethearts, their bond eventually could not withstand the realities of life in professional wrestling.

Divorce from Steve Austin in 1992
In 1992, after just two years of marriage, Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin divorced. The separation was relatively quiet compared to the media-driven divorces often seen in the wrestling and entertainment industries. Kathryn chose not to seek publicity or attention following the divorce, instead retreating into a private life. For Austin, the end of this marriage marked the beginning of a new chapter, both personally and professionally, as he went on to become a wrestling legend.
Life After Separation from Steve Austin
Following her divorce from Steve Austin, Kathryn Burrhus stepped away from the public eye entirely. Unlike many celebrity ex-spouses, she did not seek media interviews, book deals, or public appearances. Instead, she focused on rebuilding her life privately. There is little public information about her career or relationships after the divorce, which is a testament to her commitment to living outside the shadow of fame.
Kathryn Burrhus’s Privacy and Low-Profile Lifestyle
One of the defining aspects of Kathryn Burrhus’s life is her dedication to privacy. Even though she was once married to one of the most famous wrestlers in history, Kathryn never used that association to build her own public profile. She avoided the spotlight, preferring to live quietly and away from media speculation. This choice reflects her strong personal values and desire for a normal, grounded life.
Career and Professional Endeavors
While specific details about Kathryn Burrhus’s career are not widely available, it is believed that she pursued her own professional interests outside of the wrestling industry. Unlike Steve Austin, whose career thrived under public attention, Kathryn deliberately kept her work life private. Her decision to remain independent of Austin’s fame allowed her to maintain her individuality even after their divorce.
Personal Traits and Personality
Those who knew Kathryn Burrhus often describe her as supportive, private, and resilient. She embodied qualities that helped her manage the challenges of being married to an aspiring wrestler. Her ability to maintain dignity and grace, even after divorce, highlights her strength of character. These personal traits continue to shape the public’s perception of her as a figure of quiet influence in Steve Austin’s early years.
Public Curiosity About Kathryn Burrhus Today
Decades after her divorce from Steve Austin, fans remain curious about Kathryn Burrhus. Her name frequently comes up in discussions about Austin’s personal life and history, especially among wrestling enthusiasts. However, Kathryn has consistently chosen to stay out of the limelight. Her absence from social media and public events only adds to the curiosity surrounding her life today.
Connection to Steve Austin’s Legacy
Although their marriage was brief, Kathryn Burrhus is forever connected to Steve Austin’s legacy as his first wife and high school sweetheart. She was part of his story before the fame, championships, and global recognition. For fans, Kathryn represents the humble beginnings of a man who would later become a wrestling icon. Her connection to Austin’s life adds depth to the narrative of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin’s rise to stardom.
Lesser-Known Facts About Kathryn Burrhus
- Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin were high school sweethearts before marrying in 1990.
- She was married to Austin for only two years before their divorce in 1992.
- Kathryn was born in Austin, Texas, a city deeply connected to sports culture.
- She stands at an approximate height of 1.7 meters (5’7”).
- Unlike many celebrity ex-spouses, she has never sought public attention or fame.
Conclusion: Remembering Kathryn Burrhus’s Place in WWE History
In conclusion, Kathryn Burrhus may not be a public figure today, but her story is significant in the history of WWE legend Steve Austin. As his first wife and high school sweetheart, she played a vital role in his early life and career. Their marriage may have been short-lived, but it represented a chapter of love, growth, and challenges that shaped Austin’s journey. Kathryn’s commitment to privacy and independence has made her a figure of intrigue, remembered as the woman who stood by “Stone Cold” before the world knew his name.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kathryn Burrhus
Who is Kathryn Burrhus?
Kathryn Burrhus is the first wife of Steve Austin, also known as WWE legend “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.
When did Kathryn Burrhus marry Steve Austin?
She married Steve Austin on November 24, 1990.
How long were Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin married?
Their marriage lasted about two years, ending in divorce in 1992.
Does Kathryn Burrhus have children with Steve Austin?
No, Kathryn Burrhus and Steve Austin did not have children together.
Where is Kathryn Burrhus today?
Kathryn Burrhus lives a private life away from the spotlight, with little public information about her current activities.
What is Kathryn Burrhus’s height?
She is approximately 1.7 meters (5’7”) tall.
Why is Kathryn Burrhus remembered?
She is remembered as the high school sweetheart and first wife of Steve Austin, playing a role in his early personal life before his wrestling fame.
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