Exclusive Interview
Since the PPV debut of WOW (Women of Wrestling) back in February, Lana Kinnear has exploded. A fast-rising commodity in the wrestling circles, Kinnear depicts WOW's number one 'heel', Lana Starr: a pretentious, self-centered and brash character who will stoop to any level to get what she wants. Hairspray, clippers, or simply her patented pink-handed mirror; there's no foreign object out of the reach of this mesmerizing blonde. Kinnear portrays the "Lana Starr" persona with enthralling precision, which consequently has allowed the character to thrive and draw immaculate 'heat' levels. Aside from wrestling, Kinnear additionally has an extensive background in modelling and acting, which just adds to her vast repertoire of talents.
In the proceeding interview, Kinnear talks to Mike Altamura about the emotions leading up the WOW's PPV debut, her entrance into the wrestling business, the character she plays and the challenges she faces.
Q) Besides being an all women's promotion, in your mind, why has WOW garnered so much widespread interest?
A) I think the fact that we're based out of LA; we're able to enjoy the benefit of a lot of different media outlets, which definitely helps on a national level.
Q) What sort of emotions did you experience leading up to the unprecedented "WOW Unleased" PPV?
A) I was very stressed. I felt that there was so much riding on it being our first pay per view and all, and I had been out doing tons of promoting the weeks leading up to it. I was in different cities, being unable to train and not knowing certain details until the day of the show. Very stressful.
Q) Backtracking a bit, how did the deal with WOW exactly come about? Moreover, has wrestling been everything you expected it to be?
A) I was sent on the audition (for WOW) by an agent; I've been a fan of wrestling always so I was really excited. It's a lot harder than I expected.
Q) You've also worked extensively in the modelling and acting professions. Can you tell us about your experiences in those areas of entertainment?
A) I still do a little of both when I have the time. Modelling is just really easy and almost relaxing for me. Acting is what I love most, which is why W.O.W. is great. I can play someone unlike myself.
Q) How did you find the metamorphosis from model/actress to wrestler? What were the main adaptations that needed to be made?
A) Luckily my character is written in such a way that I just took parts of girls I have come into contact with in my modelling/acting experiences and put them into Lana Star. I had to learn to check for bruises before going on auditions for other acting and modelling jobs (laughs)
Q) From observing, it's perceived that you're given a lot of freedom and creative control with the "Lana Starr" character. Is that the case?
A) I'm fairly lucky in that department. If I'm really opposed to something, they generally listen to me.
Q) Eccentric, arrogant, bombastic: The "Lana Starr" character is essentially everything you're not. Does that make the portrayal of the character slightly harder to grasp?
A) No it's actually fun. How often can someone actually get away with acting like that!
Q) As Starr, you continue to play the ultimate 'heel' in WOW, which is just a credit, especially in a predominantly male-infested market, that often can't help but to love the glamorous 'heel'. What do you see as the strength of the persona you take on?
A) I think the fact that this person that everyone sees probably as a blonde bimbo, basically calls the shots, rarely loses, even if she has to cheat, and can manipulate people to do her dirty work. I think that she's basically super smart and that's her strength.
Q) Are you looking to additionally work elsewhere in the pro wrestling ranks, or is WOW simply all that's on the agenda?
A) I'm totally happy with WOW right now, but nobody knows what the future holds.
Q) As a person, what do you see as your greatest attribute?
A) Determination.
Q) From a personal level, what is "Lana Starr" all about?
A) Lana Star is someone I think could be fun to hang out with: limos, parties etc.; but that I could never trust.
Q) What is your greatest fear?
A) Relating to wrestling? I guess death or permanent injury.
Q) What kind of workout do you go through to keep in such great shape?
A) We train 5 days a week, about 4 hours a day. Which includes cardio, weights, drills and learning moves.
Q) What are some of your interests outside of the wrestling circles?
A) Music, going to see bands, going to clubs or just staying home relaxing watching TV or surfing the Internet; and of course shopping!
Q) Is there anything you would like to specifically accomplish in pro wrestling?
A) There's so much. I've only just begun.
Q) Is there anything you'd like to say to all the Lana Starr fans out there?
A) Thankyou for your support. I appreciate it so much; it means the world to me.
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