Lee Reherman, who was best known to fans of American Gladiators as “Hawk” has died unexpectedly at his Manhattan Beach, CA home. His girlfriend found his body on the morning of March 1, and foul play is not suspected in the case. Lee had hip replacement surgery recently and had been complaining about not feeling well, but it’s such tragic news that someone who was known for their robust health and strength could die so young.
The TV show’s Twitter page confirmed the sad news by posting, “It is with much sadness we inform you #AmericanGladiators star Hawk @LeeReherman sadly passed away this morning. RIP,” along with a photo of Lee back in his competition days with his tan, incredibly buff body. The Gladiators TV home page said that, “his cause of death is unclear at this point. Lee had reportedly been not feeling well in the past few days and was recovering from hip replacement surgery he had a few months ago.”
RIP Lee Rehrman. I will miss you, brother. https://t.co/qYpOQ2bqYA
— Dean Cain (@RealDeanCain) March 1, 2016
Actor Dean Cain, 49, gave a special shout out to Lee, who helped train the former Lois & Clarkstar to compete on a Celebrity Challenge of American Gladiators. He wrote “RIP Lee Reherman. I will miss you, brother,” to his Twitter and included a link to their days on the show.
Lee was best known for competing as ‘Hawk’ in American Gladiators from 1993-1996, but he also competed on International Gladiators, filmed in Birmingham, England. After Gladiators, he was still a familiar face on TV, acting in shows including Angel, Gilmore Girls, That’s So Raven, The Wizards Of Waverly Place, and Hannah Montana. More recently, he played Special Agent Ross Hardison in The First Family and antagonist Victor in Disney’s KC Undercover.
Our thoughts are with Lee’s family and friends during this tragic time.
by bshilliday