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WWE Hero Shad Gaspard's Legacy
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Shad Gaspard, a former WWE wrestler known for his time in the tag team Cryme Tyme, tragically died in 2020 at the age of 39 while heroically saving his son from drowning in a rip current at Venice Beach, California. Gaspard's life was marked by athletic achievements, a successful career in professional wrestling and acting, and ultimately, an act of selfless bravery as a father.

Professional Wrestling Career

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Shad Gaspard's professional wrestling career began in 2003 when he signed with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) after impressing talent scouts, despite failing to make it through the company's Tough Enough competition.12 He was assigned to WWE's developmental territory Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), where he initially performed under the ring name "Da Beast."2 In OVW, Gaspard formed a successful tag team with JTG, and together they captured the OVW Southern Tag Team Championship on two occasions.12

In 2006, Gaspard and JTG, now known as Cryme Tyme, were promoted to WWE's main roster.1 Their gimmick, which played on racial stereotypes, involved the duo "robbing" people in the arena and engaging in other petty crimes.2 While controversial, the Cryme Tyme gimmick made Gaspard and JTG popular with fans. Though they had several opportunities at the WWE Tag Team Championships, they never managed to capture the titles.1

After being released from WWE in 2007, Cryme Tyme returned to the company in 2008 and had notable feuds with the likes of John Morrison and The Miz, as well as Jeri-Show (Chris Jericho and Big Show).12 In 2010, Gaspard turned heel and attacked JTG, disbanding Cryme Tyme.2 He was released from WWE later that year.1

Throughout his WWE career, Gaspard's charisma, athleticism, and imposing presence made him a memorable figure in the tag team division. His work as part of Cryme Tyme left a lasting impact on fans, cementing his legacy in the world of professional wrestling.

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Notable Acting Roles

After his wrestling career, Shad Gaspard transitioned into acting, appearing in several films and TV shows. Some of his notable acting roles included:

  • Gaspard played the role of Shatter in the 2015 film "Get Hard" starring Will Ferrell and Kevin Hart.1

  • He appeared in an episode of the TV series "From Dusk Till Dawn" in 2014.1

  • Gaspard had a role in the 2012 film "Think Like a Man" based on the book by Steve Harvey.1

  • He acted in the 2011 film "Petunia" alongside Thora Birch and Christine Lahti.1

  • Gaspard played a bodyguard in the 2008 film "Bolden!" about jazz pioneer Buddy Bolden.1

In addition to his film and television work, Gaspard also did motion capture and voice acting for the video game "WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010".1 His acting career allowed him to showcase his versatility and charisma in roles outside the wrestling ring.

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Heroic Death: From Armed Robbery to Saving His Son

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Shad Gaspard's heroism extended beyond the wrestling ring. In 2016, he stopped an armed robbery at a gas station in Florida, disarming the gunman and restraining him until police arrived.1 Tragically, in 2020, Gaspard made the ultimate sacrifice while saving his 10-year-old son from a dangerous rip current at Venice Beach. When lifeguards approached to rescue them, Gaspard selflessly directed them to help his son first. Moments later, a large wave crashed over him and he was swept out to sea.23 His final act was one of pure love and bravery, as he put his child's life above his own. Gaspard's heroic spirit, both in times of crisis and as a devoted father, will forever be remembered and celebrated.

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