Key Takeaways
- William “The Refrigerator” Perry rose to fame as a versatile player for the Chicago Bears, making history as both a defensive tackle and occasional fullback during their 1985 Super Bowl championship season.
- Following his NFL career, Perry has faced significant health challenges, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, diabetes, and mobility issues, while also experiencing financial difficulties.
- Despite his personal struggles, Perry’s legacy endures as both a football icon and pop culture figure, and he continues to show resilience in facing his health challenges.
William “The Refrigerator” Perry, a legendary figure in American football, is indeed still alive.
Born on December 16, 1962, Perry has faced a life marked by incredible highs during his NFL career and significant health and personal challenges in retirement.
Early Life And Football Fame
Perry’s journey began in Aiken, South Carolina, where his athletic abilities quickly set him apart.
After a standout college football career at Clemson University, Perry was drafted in the first round of the 1985 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears.
@gridironglorydays William “The Refrigerator” Perry was a dominant force at Clemson, playing from 1981 to 1984. Known for his massive size and surprising agility, Perry anchored the defensive line, earning All-American honors. He helped Clemson win the 1981 national championship and set the school record for career tackles by a defensive lineman. Perry’s presence on the field made him a fan favorite and a key part of Clemson’s defensive identity during his college career. #clemsonfootball #accfootball #collegefootball ♬ original sound – gridiron glory days
He earned the nickname “The Refrigerator” for his imposing size and became an unforgettable part of the Bears’ 1985 Super Bowl-winning team.
During his NFL career, Perry not only excelled as a defensive tackle but also became a fan favorite for his occasional stints as a fullback, famously scoring a touchdown in Super Bowl XX.
Health Struggles And Life After Football
Perry’s post-NFL life has been marred by serious health issues.
In 2007, he was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nervous system.
Over the years, Perry has also battled diabetes, weight issues, and complications related to his health, at times requiring a wheelchair for mobility.
Despite these challenges, Perry remains a resilient figure. He has faced financial difficulties and personal struggles, including the auctioning of his Super Bowl ring and periods of living in a retirement facility.
Yet, his fighting spirit continues to shine through.
Legacy And Current Status
Perry’s impact on football and pop culture is incredible.
Known for his charismatic personality and larger-than-life presence, he transcended sports to become a beloved figure in the entertainment world, appearing in commercials, TV shows, and even as a G.I. Joe action figure.
In recent years, Perry has shown signs of improvement in his health, reporting in 2018 that he felt better than he had in years.
While his mobility and weight remain concerns, he continues to navigate life with the same determination that defined his playing days.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- From an early age, Perry was already remarkable in size, being one of twelve siblings in a working-class family with a painter father and school dietitian mother in Aiken, South Carolina.
- Despite weighing 300 pounds by age 11, Perry possessed extraordinary athleticism, capable of performing full rotational basketball dunks and complex diving maneuvers.
- His large stature and remarkable physical abilities were evident from childhood, foreshadowing his future success in professional sports.
