Joe Cornelius

Cornelius was born on 1 May 1928 in London, England. Before entering the entertainment world, he worked as a maintenance engineer for the Daily Mirror, maintaining the newspaper's printing presses. He was encouraged to pursue wrestling by friends and mentors Tony Mancelli and Joe D'Orazio. == Career ==

Wrestling career Cornelius made his professional debut in Germany, serving as a last-minute substitute for an injured Joe D'Orazio. He is most remembered for his role in the 1970 film Trog, where he played a primitive caveman opposite Joan Crawford. In Trog, Cornelius played a primitive caveman discovered in the English countryside. The role required him to wear a "ratty ape-suit"—reportedly a leftover from Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey. Despite the film's reputation as a "B-movie," Cornelius spoke warmly of his co-star, Joan Crawford. == Personal life ==

Cornelius was a multifaceted businessman who operated a hairdressing salon throughout his wrestling and acting years. He became friends with Joan Crawford. The two formed an unlikely and lasting friendship; Crawford was impressed by his professionalism and kindness, and the pair exchanged Christmas cards for years until her death in 1977. == Death ==

Cornelius died on 30 October 2021 at the age of 93. == Filmography ==

Television Film == References ==