Teil Runnels is a member of one of pro wrestling’s most legendary families. Teil is the daughter of WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes and the sister of renowned wrestlers Cody Rhodes and Dustin Rhodes (Goldust). Teil lives largely outside the wrestling ring but is still very attached to the legacy her father and brothers have built.
Growing Up in the Rhodes Dynasty
Growing up as the daughter of Dusty Rhodes, nicknamed “The American Dream,” Teil Runnels was exposed to professional wrestling early in her life. Dusty Rhodes, known for his charisma, larger-than-life personality, and unmatched connection with fans made him one of wrestling history’s most influential figures. Teil and her siblings watched their father wrestle and make iconic moments that shaped the business.
Growing up in a wrestling household, Teil has always desired to live somewhat off the radar. As her brothers turned pro wrestlers, Teil chose a different path, focusing on her family, personal interests, and professional career beyond the wrestling ring.
Family First: Supporting Her Brothers
Among Teil Runnels’ defining traits is her commitment to her family. Cody Rhodes and Dustin Rhodes have both found success in wrestling and Teil has been their supportive sister. Cody, in particular, is a big name in the wrestling world, especially, with his role in founding All Elite wrestling (AEW), a promotion which has become very popular in recent years.
Teil has been a quiet but steady supporter of her brothers and their family history. She has spoken publicly about being proud of Cody and Dustin and being a sister who values family above fame.
A Life outside the Ring
While Teil has remained connected to the wrestling industry through her family, she has chosen to stay out of the squared circle. Rather than following in her father or brothers’ footsteps, Teil has created her own path based on her values and professional goals.
Her connection to wrestling is undeniable, and Teil has appeared at family-centered wrestling events, but she prefers to keep her private life out of the glare of the wrestling business. This has allowed her to keep her own identity while honoring her famous family.
Dusty Rhodes’ Impact on Teil’s Life
Dusty Rhodes was a beloved professional wrestler and a devoted father. Teil often has spoken about how her father’s charisma, compassion, and work ethic shaped her own life. She has lauded the way Dusty interacted with people inside and outside the wrestling world. To Teil, Dusty was more than “The American Dream” – he was a father who encouraged his children to pursue their dreams, whether in wrestling or other fields.
Teil and her family lost Dusty in 2015, but his memory continues to lives on. His values of hard work, humility, and family pride continue to shape Teil’s life today.
