First of all, congratulations Danhausen!! We're so happy for you and your cool as heck family. Well deserved!!
Danhausen and Lou Lou la Duchesse de Rière shot by Marisa Parisella at Le Saint Motel in the room designed by Melissa Valiquette
Professional wrestling has always had room for larger-than-life characters, but few performers have created a persona as distinctive as Danhausen. Known for his horror-inspired look, dry comedic timing, and the catchphrase “very nice, very evil,” Danhausen has spent more than a decade building a devoted fan following across the independent wrestling scene.
Danhausen shot by Marisa Parisella at Le Saint Motel in the room designed by Sarah Loubiri
Danhausen began his wrestling career in 2013 after training under respected wrestlers Jimmy Jacobs and Truth Martini. Early in his career he wrestled under the name Donovan Danger before evolving into the Danhausen character that fans know today, a strange and charismatic combination of classic horror aesthetics, comedic timing, and old-school wrestling theatrics. His unique presentation quickly gained traction on the independent circuit and in promotions such as Ring of Honor, where he further expanded his reputation as one of the most recognizable personalities in modern wrestling.
In 2022, Danhausen signed with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), making his debut on AEW Dynamite during the Beach Break episode. There he quickly became associated with Orange Cassidy and the Best Friends faction, continuing to grow his cult following through his eccentric humor, memorable merchandise, and frequent fan interactions.
Danhausen shot by Marisa Parisella at Le Saint Motel in the room designed by Angus Byers
A New Chapter in WWE LOVE THAT DANHAUSEN!
Danhausen signed a new contract with WWE, marking an exciting new chapter in his career. The debut immediately captured attention thanks to an entrance that perfectly embodied the theatrical spirit that has always defined the character.
The entrance featured an elaborate performance with dancers and striking choreography that blended gothic theatricality with professional wrestling spectacle. The choreography was created by his wife, Lou Lou la Duchesse de Rière, an award winning & internationally recognized burlesque performer, choreographer, and producer known for her elaborate stage productions and cinematic dance performances.
Lou Lou la Duchesse de Rière shot by Marisa Parisella at Le Saint Motel
Lou Lou la Duchesse de Rière has earned global recognition within the burlesque world, including titles such as:
-Miss Exotic World / Reigning Queen of Burlesque at the Miss Exotic World Pageant (the most prestigious burlesque competition in the world)
-Multiple awards at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender in Las Vegas
-International headliner and choreographer for major burlesque festivals and theatrical productions
Her creative direction brought a unique layer of theatrical storytelling to Danhausen’s entrance, mixing burlesque stagecraft, choreography, and wrestling spectacle in a way that felt both cinematic and unmistakably “Danhausen.”
Danhausen shot by Marisa Parisella at Le Saint Motel in the room designed by Marisa and Eddie Spuhghetti
A Personal Note
Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of photographing Danhausen and family on several occasions. Each time he brought the same unmistakable charisma, creativity, and sense of fun that fans see in the ring. Working with performers who fully embrace their character is always special, and Danhausen is a perfect example of someone who lives and breathes the art of performance.
Congratulations to Danhausen on the new contract with WWE. We’re excited to see what comes next for one of professional wrestling’s most original personalities.
Very nice. Very evil.
Sources
Friendship.
Danhausen – Career information and background (Wikipedia)The Sportster – Danhausen’s Career Told in Photos
Burlesque Hall of Fame – performer records and awards for Lou Lou la Duchesse de Rière