The following are highlights from a new WWE.com interview with NXT Diva Charlotte, who is the daughter of WWE Hall Of Famer “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair.
WWE.COM: What was it like growing up with one of the greatest performers of all time as your father?
CHARLOTTE: Honestly, I grew up very privileged, and I am so thankful for the opportunities my dad’s career was able to provide. I have had the opportunity to travel the world, and I’ve met so many incredible people from all walks of life. I truly believe growing up in Charlotte, N.C., which was once a very small city, is what kept me grounded. I am still friends with the kids I went to kindergarten with.
Yes, our family is extremely well known in North Carolina; at the same time when you have lived in the same place your entire life, everyone gets to know you. When Dad and I would walk into a restaurant, it wouldn’t be the same reaction as we would get somewhere else, because the community as a whole knew us.
WWE.COM: How much of a difference existed between the Ric Flair that the world knew compared to the Ric Flair you grew up with?
CHARLOTTE: None. The sport of professional wrestling was and is my dad’s life. I truly believe he is loved and hated by so many because he is one of a few in history that can take an audience through an array of emotions. My dad has never been afraid to show emotion in public or at home. At sporting events he would be the first to tear up when I hit the stage. I think he was also the first inductee to cry on stage during the 2008 Hall of Fame Ceremony, when Triple H inducted him. My dad did everything he could to put food on the table.
WWE.COM: How true are all the stories of Ric Flair’s generosity?
CHARLOTTE: About three years ago I remember riding with my dad the day before Christmas Eve, and he was giving out gifts to people he knew at our local grocery store, favorite restaurants and even our local hair dresser. If I asked him to bring me a Gatorade to volleyball practice, he would bring four. On the other hand, when Dad was on TV talking about owning $800 alligator boots, he wasn’t kidding.
Some people criticize because they think my dad still wants to be active because he still wants the limousines and jets. The truth is, he does still want to be active and in the public because his life has been dedicated to our industry. Dad loves his fans and constantly wants to give back.
Check out the complete interview online at WWE.com.
