More Than Just A Pretty Face
Lilian's first WWF.com interview from WWF.com
Several months ago, fans were introduced to Lilian Garcia -- the new ring announcer for RAW. It didn't take long to realize exactly how easy on the eyes she was. However, what many fans don't realize is that there is more to Lilian Garcia than just a pretty face. Recently, WWF.com had the opportunity to speak with Lilian about her past, how she became involved with the Federation, her feelings about storylines and much more.
WWF.com: How did you originally become involved with the World Wrestling Federation?
Lilian Garcia: I have an agency in New York. They called me in and I went to an audition. I then went back for another audition, and they narrowed it down from there. I originally auditioned for SuperAstros, and the WWF wanted me for that. However, Univision had Maria (Felipe). They said that they already had her, and that they wanted her. Then, when the position opened for this, Tom Carlucci (International TV producer) submitted my reel from the audition. They called me back for another audition. That's how that whole thing happened.
WWF.Com: Do you have any experience in any other forms of entertainment other than the World Wrestling Federation?
L.G: I used to be on a morning show for a radio station. Then I had my own afternoon drive-time show on a top 40 station in South Carolina. I did television in Atlanta. I was a VJ. I used to introduce music videos. I've always been involved with television commercials. I also sing. That's one of the major things that I have done since I was five years old. I sing every weekend with a 14-piece orchestra.
WWF.Com: How do you respond to Internet reports that claim the Federation was just looking for a pretty face to announce in the ring?
L.G: I know looks are important, there's no way around it. I think that's what helps The Rock, and that's why People magazine chose him (the sexiest wrestler). In TV, in movies - just look at Richard Gere - all of that is all about looks and stuff. But I also think that if it were just a pretty face and no brains, it wouldn't last. I don't mind if somebody thinks I'm pretty. I think it's a great compliment, I don't mind that. But, just to say that I am there because I'm a pretty face, I don't think that's the bottom line.
WWF.Com: Were you a fan of the Federation prior to joining the company?
L.G: Yes, a long time ago. Back in the days of Andre the Giant and Blackjack Mulligan. (Becoming a Federation ring announcer) was the last thing I expected, and my dad just about had a heart attack because we used to watch wrestling when my mom and sister were watching beauty pageants. It was just a kick that here I am in the ring many years later, and being a part of the whole thing.
WWF.Com: Millions of fans around the world would consider a job as a ring announcer a dream come true. What aspect of the job do you enjoy the most?
L.G: Definitely traveling with the guys because I get to see how they are backstage. That's something that I wish everybody could see. To see what they act like and to see who they really are is two different things. It was one of the things that really shocked me. They are just really great guys, family men and they really respect each other. It's a really big family community, and that's what I really like and why I want to be a part of it. Being in the ring is great because there is nothing like being out in the arena and really feeling the excitement of the whole thing. That's what I just love about ring announcing - I'm out there, I'm part of the whole thing and I get front row seats every week. Who wouldn't love that?
WWF.Com: Do you always agree with the "attitudinal" angles the Federation puts on television?
L.G: I don't know whether it's about agreeing or disagreeing. I think, like anything else, it's a matter of opinion whether you like the story line or you don't. You have to realize this is a soap opera. Just like television, there are a lot of things that people don't agree on as far as violence, sex and that kind of thing. It's one of those things where if you don't like it, don't watch it. The Pepper story line bothered me because I have a dog. I didn't love the idea of them cooking Pepper. Boss Man had done some extreme stuff, but I think you have to realize that it's just part of the angle and part of the soap opera. You can't take it so seriously. I think a lot of people are quick to judge without even knowing what it's about. It's like anything else - when you're on top, people want to bring you down.
WWF.Com: Finally Lilian, who is your favorite superstar?
L.G: I can't say I have one favorite. Let me tell you, it's amazing how hard they work. Their athletic abilities are amazing. I'm in total awe of them. There are no big egos and I'm talking about the girls, too. These people have been nothing but supportive, and have been really, really greatm and not just with me, but with each other. It's a big family, but not a dysfunctional family. I just really admire everyone who works for the entire organization. It's pretty amazing.
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