Jesse Ventura is the kind of guy who’s lived enough lives for five people. From being a Navy SEAL and pro wrestler to a Hollywood actor and even the Governor of Minnesota, he’s done it all. With a career spanning entertainment, politics, and media, Ventura has always been a larger-than-life figure who speaks his mind—no matter the consequences.
Now, at 73 years old (as of 2025), Jesse George Janos, better known as Jesse Ventura, is still a name that sparks curiosity. Whether you remember him from his wrestling days as “The Body,” his role in Predator alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, or his unexpected political career, one thing’s for sure—Ventura is nothing short of fascinating.
The Man Behind the Name
Born on July 15, 1951, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Jesse Ventura didn’t start off in the spotlight. Before he was a household name, he was serving in the U.S. Navy, specifically as part of the elite Underwater Demolition Team (UDT) during the Vietnam War. This experience not only toughened him up but also instilled the discipline that he carried into the rest of his life.
After leaving the military, Ventura found his way into professional wrestling in 1975, adopting the flamboyant persona “Jesse ‘The Body’ Ventura.” His larger-than-life attitude, deep voice, and cocky personality made him a fan favorite—not to mention, his muscular frame helped him stand out in an era of big personalities. He competed in the wrestling world until 1986, when blood clots in his lungs forced him to step away from the ring.
Hollywood & Wrestling Fame
Even though his wrestling career ended earlier than he’d hoped, Ventura didn’t slow down. Instead, he transitioned into being a color commentator for the then-WWF (now WWE). His sharp wit and signature voice made him a natural behind the mic. He called some of the most legendary wrestling matches of the ’80s, working alongside Gorilla Monsoon.
But wrestling wasn’t the only place where Ventura made waves. Hollywood came knocking, and he landed a role in Predator (1987), starring alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. The film became a cult classic, and Ventura’s performance as Blain, the tough-as-nails soldier with the famous line, “I ain’t got time to bleed,” cemented his status in pop culture.
The Unexpected Governor
Politics wasn’t something anyone expected from Ventura, but in 1991, he took his first steps by becoming the Mayor of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. After serving four years, he shocked the world in 1998 when he ran for Governor of Minnesota as a third-party candidate with the Reform Party. His grassroots campaign, fueled by town hall meetings and TV debates, connected with regular folks who were tired of traditional politicians.
And guess what? He won.
From 1999 to 2003, Jesse Ventura served as the 38th Governor of Minnesota. During his tenure, he focused on tax reduction, transportation projects like the Hiawatha Line, and pushing for political reform. But his outspoken nature often put him at odds with both Democrats and Republicans. After one term, he decided not to run for re-election, stepping away from politics for good.
Family & Personal Life
While Ventura’s professional life was wild, his personal life has been pretty steady. He married his wife, Terry, on July 18, 1975, and they’ve been together ever since—a rare feat in Hollywood and political circles. The couple has two children, a son named Tyrel and a daughter named Jade.
Over the years, Ventura has been open about his use of anabolic steroids during his wrestling days, a common practice at the time. In 2002, he suffered severe blood clots in his lungs, an injury that forced him to step away from the wrestling world permanently.
Today, Jesse Ventura’s net worth is estimated to be around $7 million—not bad for a guy who’s worn more hats than most people can dream of.
