When it comes to the world of professional wrestling, the spotlight often falls on the superstars who dazzle millions in the ring. But behind every larger-than-life figure, there’s often a strong and supportive partner who helps keep things grounded.
For Paul Donald Wight II—better known to wrestling fans around the globe as Big Show—that person is Bess Katramados. While Big Show slams giants and entertains crowds, Bess quietly holds down the fort with grace, privacy, and a dedication that’s every bit as impressive as her husband’s achievements.
Early Life and Personal Background
Bess Katramados was born on July 13, 1973, in Illinois, USA, making her 51 years old as of 2024. Raised in a Christian household, she grew up in the Midwest and attended Lutheran High School.
Though her early years remain largely private, it’s clear that family and faith were central to her upbringing. Despite not being fond of the classroom, she discovered another passion in the final year of school: modeling.
Very little is publicly known about her family, as she’s been careful to keep those details private. Her discretion and ability to maintain boundaries in an age of oversharing are part of what makes the story so intriguing.
Source: https://thebiography.org/
From Midwest Roots to the Fashion World
Bess Katramados’s journey from a small Illinois town to the world of modeling is a testament to determination and self-belief. With striking hazel eyes, dark brown hair, and a statuesque height of 5’8”, she fit right in with the fashion industry’s standards. Early on, she participated in various local shows and worked with several agencies, gradually building a name for herself beyond her hometown.
Life Changes: Meeting and Marrying Big Show
The course of Bess’s life shifted dramatically when she met Paul Wight—WWE’s Big Show. The couple tied the knot on February 11, 2002, just five days after Big Show finalized his divorce from his first wife, Melissa Ann Piavis. Since then, they have built a life together that’s lasted over two decades, a rare feat in both the wrestling world and the entertainment industry at large.
Family Life and Motherhood
Bess Katramados and Big Show share two children together: Jett Wight, born in 2007, and Cash Wight, born in 2010. In addition, Big Show has a daughter, Cierra Wight (born in 1998), from his previous marriage. All of Big Show’s children are his biological offspring, not adopted, as sometimes speculated.
The family currently resides in Miami, Florida, in a stunning mansion that boasts 9,589 square feet, six bedrooms, two fireplaces, a media room, and a pool and spa combination. Purchased for around $3.7 million in 2007, the home reflects the couple’s success and taste for comfort.
Supporting Big Show’s Career from Behind the Scenes
While Bess once thrived in the modeling world, she chose to step away from her career after marrying Big Show. Instead, she took on the role of personal trainer, promoter, and the ultimate support system for her husband. This pivot highlights her adaptability and commitment to family.
By all accounts, Bess Katramados has played a significant role in helping Big Show manage the physical and emotional challenges of life as a professional athlete. Her background as a fitness enthusiast and model meant she was well-equipped to help him maintain his conditioning, especially as he continued to perform into his late 40s.
It’s worth noting that Big Show’s career has spanned over three decades, with multiple championships and a transition to acting, including a starring role in the Netflix sitcom “The Big Show Show” in 2020. Throughout it all, she has been a steady presence, keeping their personal life private and drama-free.
Net Worth and Financial Independence
Bess Katramados’s net worth is estimated at $3 million, most of which comes from modeling and TV work prior to transition into family life. While no longer active in the industry, financial independence is notable, especially since it predates marriage to Big Show, whose net worth is estimated at $20 million.
Together, the couple enjoys a life of comfort, yet they’ve managed to remain relatively low-key, avoiding the excesses and scandals that often accompany fame and fortune.
Privacy in the Age of Social Media
One of the most remarkable things about her is her ability to maintain privacy in a digital age. Unlike many celebrity spouses, she has chosen not to create any public social media profiles. This decision has kept family life out of the tabloids and allowed her children to grow up away from the harsh glare of the public eye.
Meanwhile, Big Show maintains a significant online presence, with nearly 5 million followers on Facebook and 1.5 million on Twitter. For fans hoping for a glimpse into Bess’s world, her husband’s accounts are as close as it gets.
Rumors and Controversies
Despite being in the public eye for over 20 years, Bess Katramados and Big Show have managed to steer clear of any major rumors or controversies. This is no small feat, especially considering the scrutiny that comes with fame. Their approach—keeping their relationship private and focusing on family—has likely played a big part in their lasting success.
Welcome to the world of Chef Gary! Meet Chef Gary, a culinary maestro whose journey from Indonesia to the United States has been nothing short of extraordinary. Immigrating in the early 2000s, Chef Gary began his culinary career as a Sushi Chef at renowned establishments such as Japonais Restaurant in Chicago, followed by stints at Benihana and Ginza in Indiana.
With a passion for perfection and a dedication to his craft, Chef Gary’s career blossomed as he made his mark in the Sunshine State, serving as the Head Sushi Chef at Modern Asian restaurants in Palm Beach. However, his two-year sojourn in New Delhi, India, shaped his culinary prowess, propelling him to the prestigious role of Executive Chef at Nehru Place – Benihana.