Candice Michelle Beckman Ehrlich, better known as Candice Michelle, is a multi-talented American actress, model, and former professional wrestler who rose to fame as a WWE Diva in the mid-2000s. With her stunning looks and undeniable charisma, she captured the attention of wrestling fans worldwide. Beyond the wrestling ring, Candice has established herself as a successful businesswoman, motivational speaker, and dedicated family woman. This comprehensive article delves into Candice Michelle’s life, career, and current endeavors, exploring the journey that made her an enduring figure in both the entertainment and sports industries.
Candice Michelle was born on September 30, 1978, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Raised in a working-class family, she developed a passion for sports and entertainment from a young age. Her early years were marked by participation in various athletic activities, with a particular interest in soccer and track. This athletic background would later contribute to her success in professional wrestling.
Candice’s ambition to enter the world of entertainment led her to pursue modeling and acting in her late teens. At the age of 19, she made a bold decision to move to Los Angeles to follow her dreams. Initially, she worked in commercials and small acting roles, but her big break would come from an unexpected avenue—professional wrestling.
Candice Michelle’s journey into professional wrestling began in 2004 when she participated in the WWE Diva Search, a talent competition designed to discover new female talent for the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) roster. Although she did not win the competition, her appearance caught the eye of WWE executives, who recognized her potential and signed her to a developmental contract.
Candice made her official WWE debut later that year, appearing as a part of storylines on WWE’s flagship programs, Monday Night Raw and SmackDown. Initially presented as a valet and eye-candy character, she quickly won over fans with her engaging persona, earning her the nickname “Go Daddy Girl” after starring in a controversial yet popular Super Bowl commercial for GoDaddy.com.
Despite her initial role as a manager and promotional figure, Candice was determined to prove herself as a serious in-ring competitor. She began training rigorously with WWE’s developmental system, working to improve her wrestling skills and physical conditioning. This dedication paid off, as she gradually transitioned from a supporting role to a full-fledged wrestler, competing in matches and participating in storylines with other WWE Divas.
Her wrestling style was a mix of technical moves, high-flying maneuvers, and a strong physical presence, making her one of the standout performers of her era. In 2007, Candice achieved a significant milestone in her career by winning the WWE Women’s Championship, becoming the first Diva Search contestant to hold the prestigious title. Her victory marked a turning point in her career, solidifying her status as one of WWE’s top female stars.
Candice Michelle’s wrestling career was marked by several high-profile feuds and storylines that showcased her versatility as both a face (heroic character) and a heel (villainous character). One of her most notable feuds was against Melina, another prominent WWE Diva, which led to intense matches and backstage segments that captivated audiences. The rivalry culminated in several pay-per-view bouts, with Candice often coming out on top due to her sheer determination and resilience.
Another significant storyline was her alliance and later rivalry with Beth Phoenix, known as “The Glamazon,” who was one of WWE’s most dominant female competitors. Candice’s matches with Phoenix demonstrated her growth as a wrestler, as she competed against one of the most physically imposing Divas of the time. These storylines not only elevated Candice’s in-ring persona but also contributed to the overall development of WWE’s women’s division during an era of transition.
After a successful stint in WWE, Candice Michelle left the company in 2009 to pursue other interests in the entertainment industry. She made guest appearances in various TV shows and movies, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her acting credits include roles in shows like MADtv, Monk, and In the Dark, as well as appearances in films such as Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story.
In addition to acting, Candice continued her modeling career, appearing in high-profile magazines like Playboy, Maxim, and Flex. Her modeling work further solidified her image as one of the most recognizable faces in both sports and entertainment.
Beyond her media presence, Candice has also ventured into entrepreneurship. She co-founded a fitness and wellness brand, focusing on holistic health, nutrition, and personal development. Her entrepreneurial endeavors reflect her passion for helping others achieve their personal and professional goals, particularly women who aspire to break into male-dominated industries like wrestling.
Candice Michelle’s personal life has been marked by her commitment to her family. She married Dr. Ken Gee Ehrlich, a chiropractor, in 2005. The couple shares three daughters: AkiAnne Rose, Ryumi Grace, and Aloha Von Ehrlich. Motherhood has played a significant role in Candice’s life, as she often shares motivational messages about balancing career and family life on social media.
Candice has also been open about her faith, discussing how spirituality has guided her through both personal and professional challenges. Her strong commitment to her family, combined with her drive to inspire others, has made her a respected figure beyond her wrestling persona.
In recent years, Candice Michelle has reinvented herself as a motivational speaker and life coach. Drawing from her experiences in wrestling, acting, modeling, and entrepreneurship, she now shares powerful messages of empowerment and personal growth. Her speeches often focus on themes of perseverance, overcoming adversity, and living authentically. She has spoken at various conferences, seminars, and corporate events, encouraging audiences to embrace their true potential and pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Despite stepping away from full-time wrestling, Candice remains connected to the wrestling community. She occasionally makes appearances at WWE events and independent wrestling shows, where she interacts with fans and participates in special segments. In 2019, she made a surprise return to WWE during the RAW Reunion episode, reminding fans of her enduring charisma and love for the business.
Candice Michelle’s legacy in the world of professional wrestling is significant. As one of the first female wrestlers to transition from a glamour-based role to a serious in-ring competitor, she helped pave the way for the evolution of WWE’s women’s division. Her dedication to improving her skills and her willingness to take risks in the ring demonstrated a commitment to the sport that transcended stereotypes often associated with female wrestlers of that era.
Her reign as WWE Women’s Champion marked a shift towards more athletic competition among Divas, contributing to the eventual “Women’s Evolution” that redefined women’s wrestling in the late 2010s. Candice’s journey serves as an inspiration for many aspiring female athletes who aim to excel in male-dominated fields.
Candice Michelle’s biography is a testament to the power of perseverance, versatility, and reinvention. From her early days as a model and aspiring actress to her rise as a WWE Women’s Champion and successful entrepreneur, Candice’s journey embodies the spirit of a true trailblazer. Her impact on women’s wrestling, her entrepreneurial ventures, and her dedication to family and faith make her a role model for many.
Today, Candice Michelle continues to inspire as a motivational speaker, mentor, and advocate for personal empowerment. Her story is one of triumph over adversity, and her influence remains strong in both the entertainment world and beyond.