Hogan, who was WWE’s biggest star and an actor who once had his own reality show, “Hogan Knows Best,” died Thursday in Clearwater, Fla., where he lived.

Hulk Hogan, perhaps the most recognizable showman of professional wrestling with his beefy biceps, long blond locks, and handlebar mustache, has died. He was 71.

Vice President JD Vance

“Hulk Hogan was a great American icon. One of the first people I ever truly admired as a kid. The last time I saw him we promised we’d get beers together next time we saw each other. The next time will have to be on the other side, my friend! Rest in peace. – on X

Ric Flair, former pro wrestler

“I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend @HulkHogan! Hulk Has Been By My Side Since We Started In The Wrestling Business. An Incredible Athlete, Talent, Friend, And Father! Our Friendship Has Meant The World To Me. He Was Always There For Me Even When I Didn’t Ask For Him To Be. He Was One Of The First To Visit Me When I Was In The Hospital With A 2% Chance Of Living, And He Prayed By My Bedside. Hulk Also Lent Me Money When Reid Was Sick. Hulkster, No One Will Ever Compare To You! Rest In Peace My Friend!” – on X

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Brutus Beefcake, former pro wrestler

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“Through the good times and the bad, I always loved my brother Terry! I am devastated by the loss of my friend, I only wish we had time to mend our broken friendship before his passing. Until I see you Brother, in the big squared circle in the sky! I love you #hulkhogan#RIP” – on X

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WWE

“WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.” – on X

Piers Morgan, media personality

“RIP Hulk Hogan – the most iconic wrestler in history, a wonderful character, and in person, a far gentler, charming, intelligent man far removed from his snarling beast ring (and Rocky movie!) persona. Sad news.” – on X

Kane, pro wrestler

“Hulk Hogan was a true legend. I was fortunate to work with him a couple of times, including this memorable one. It was easy to do a Hulkster impersonation when, like millions of guys my age, I’d practiced it in the mirror a thousand times growing up.” – on X

Dave Portnoy, Barstool Sports founder

“The Hulkster was a true 1 of 1 American icon. A part of America died today. Rip to a true legend.” – on X

Brian Stelter, journalist

“RIP Hulk Hogan. ‘Widely recognized as the biggest wrestling star of all time,’ the WWE was built on his literal back.” – on X

Fox News

“Wrestling icon HulkHogan, whose strength and charisma made him a global legend, has passed away at 71. Remembered as ‘larger than life,’ he leaves behind a legacy that changed the world of wrestling. Rest in power, brother.” – on X

Larry Madowo, CNN correspondent

“The biggest wrestler of all time Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71, WWE says.” on X

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House Speaker Mike Johnson

“We all have fond memories of @HulkHogan. From my childhood in the ‘80s, to campaigning with him last year, I always saw him as a giant in stature and in life. May he rest in peace.” on X

Travis Andersen of the Globe Staff contributed to this report.