Johnny Legend

Johnny Legend, the eccentric polymath of American cult culture known for his work as a rockabilly musician, film producer, and wrestling manager, died on January 2, 2026. He was 77. Reports indicate he passed away in Newport, Oregon, due to complications from a stroke and heart failure. Born Martin Margulies, he adopted the persona of Johnny Legend, becoming a fixture in the Los Angeles punk and rockabilly scenes of the 1970s and 80s.

Legend was a tireless archivist of the weird and wonderful, helping to preserve and promote B-movies and exploitation cinema. He famously curated the 'sleazemania' video series and worked with Andy Kaufman on his wrestling exploits, even managing Kaufman during his feud with Jerry Lawler. As a musician, he kept the raw spirit of early rock and roll alive, influencing generations of psychobilly artists. His passing marks the loss of one of the underground's most colorful and dedicated champions.