Yes, It Really Happened: The Unforgettable Time Hulk Hogan Starred in One of Dolly Parton’s Wildest Music Videos

Picture this: It’s the 1980s, a decade defined by big hair, bold fashion, and even bolder pop culture mashups. Yet, few could have predicted a crossover between the undisputed Queen of Country, Dolly Parton, and the titan of professional wrestling, Hulk Hogan. While they were never a real-life item, they did, in fact, get hitched—in a gloriously over-the-top spectacle for television—during a now-legendary skit on Dolly’s 1987 variety show.

It all went down on the premiere episode of Dolly, which aired on September 27, 1987. As part of the show, Dolly unveiled a brilliantly tongue-in-cheek music video for her song, “Headlock on My Heart.” The tune itself was a clever and playful jab at the wild tabloid rumors circulating at the time, which claimed Dolly was secretly dating a 300-pound wrestler. Instead of issuing a denial, Dolly did what she does best: she leaned into the absurdity and turned it into pure entertainment gold.

Enter Hulk Hogan as the Dazzling “Starlight Starbright”

For this masterpiece of camp, who else could she call but the Hulkster himself? Decked out in his iconic red-and-yellow gear, Hogan stepped into the squared circle not as himself, but as a character named “Starlight Starbright.” His opponent? The formidable “Iron” Mike Sharpe. After delivering his signature body slam and winning the match, Starlight Starbright celebrates by lifting Dolly Parton into his arms for a spontaneous in-ring wedding. It’s a complete scene, featuring a preacher, vows, and the roaring approval of the crowd, all drenched in wonderful, campy charm.

The skit perfectly plays off Dolly’s exaggerated persona as a starstruck fan. At one point, she’s seen in the audience, screaming “Starlight Starbright!” with the unbridled enthusiasm of a teenager at her first concert, watching her ultimate crush in action. The lyrics of the song perfectly capture the hilarious theme:

“He’s got a headlock on my heart / It was a takedown from the start / I love the heart that beats beneath his massive golden chest / I guess you could say he’s pinned me down for a lifetime.”

Hogan Admits He Was a Little Confused… At First

The story behind the collaboration is just as charming as the video itself. According to Hulk Hogan’s 2002 autobiography, Hollywood Hulk Hogan, he was completely surprised when Dolly personally called him at home to pitch the idea. She showered him with praise, telling him what a huge fan she was, which left the wrestling superstar both flattered and a bit bewildered.

“At first, I thought I was something special,” Hogan wrote, recalling the conversation. “She kept saying how much she loved me.”

But he soon realized that her warmth wasn’t reserved just for him. “But then I saw her do the same with everyone—the cameraman, the key grip, everybody. That’s just who she is. That’s Dolly.” It was a heartwarming introduction to the genuine kindness that has made Dolly a universally beloved figure.

This unexpected team-up remains a shining example of Dolly’s brilliant humor, showbiz savvy, and ability to never take herself too seriously. It was part parody, part love letter to pop culture, and a moment that perfectly captured the anything-goes spirit of the era.

Watch the Hilarious “Headlock on My Heart” Music Video Below

You’ve truly never seen a wedding quite like this before. See the country legend and the wrestling icon tie the knot in this unforgettable clip.