Drew Carey's Surprise 2001 Royal Rumble Appearance Praised by WWE Exec

The comedian's teamplayer attitude and willingness to play along impressed Bruce Prichard.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 6:31am

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In a recent episode of the Something to Wrestle podcast, longtime WWE executive Bruce Prichard praised comedian Drew Carey's surprise appearance in the 2001 Royal Rumble match. Prichard highlighted Carey's class, lack of demands, and willingness to fully participate alongside the wrestlers, even insisting on using the same dressing room. Though Carey's brief stint in the Rumble wasn't a standout moment, Prichard emphasized that the TV star's positive attitude and desire to be part of the event made him a joy to work with.

Why it matters

Carey's Royal Rumble appearance was a random, unexpected moment that added some mainstream appeal and humor to the event. While not the most memorable celebrity cameo, Prichard's comments shed light on Carey's professionalism and team-player mentality, which contrasts with the diva-like behavior sometimes associated with celebrities making WWE appearances.

The details

During the 2001 Royal Rumble, comedian and TV personality Drew Carey made a surprise appearance, entering the match and quickly being eliminated by Kane. Though his time in the ring was brief, Prichard praised Carey for his positive attitude, lack of demands, and willingness to fully immerse himself in the event, even insisting on using the same dressing room as the wrestlers and watching the show from backstage.

  • Drew Carey appeared in the 2001 Royal Rumble match.

The players

Drew Carey

A comedian and TV personality best known for starring in the sitcom The Drew Carey Show and hosting the game show The Price is Right.

Bruce Prichard

A longtime WWE executive and podcaster who previously worked for the company under the name 'Brother Love'.

Kane

A WWE wrestler who eliminated Drew Carey from the 2001 Royal Rumble match.

Stone Cold Steve Austin

A WWE wrestler who won the 2001 Royal Rumble match after eliminating Kane.

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What they’re saying

“A joy to work with, and just, you take the word prima donna, whatever the anti-prima donna is, that was Drew Carey. Just a class act all the way through.”

— Bruce Prichard, WWE Executive (Something to Wrestle Podcast)

The takeaway

Drew Carey's surprise appearance in the 2001 Royal Rumble, while not the most memorable celebrity cameo, was praised by WWE executive Bruce Prichard for Carey's positive attitude, lack of demands, and willingness to fully immerse himself in the event alongside the wrestlers. Prichard's comments highlight how Carey's team-player mentality contrasted with the diva-like behavior sometimes associated with celebrities making WWE appearances.