Teil Runnels is best known as a member of one of professional wrestling’s most respected families. As the daughter of the legendary Dusty Rhodes and the sister of Cody Rhodes, she has naturally attracted attention from wrestling fans who want to know more about her life. Although she has never pursued the same level of in-ring fame as other members of her family, Teil Runnels has made several public appearances and has remained closely connected to the Rhodes legacy.
Over the years, she has appeared in wrestling-related projects, documentaries, and television series while choosing to focus primarily on her family life. Her appearances have sparked curiosity among fans searching for details about her background, career, husband, children, and relationship with the famous Rhodes family.
Who Is Teil Runnels?
Teil Margaret Runnels Gergel is an American public figure and former AEW team member who is widely recognized as the daughter of WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes. While many members of the Rhodes family built careers inside the wrestling ring, Teil followed a different path.
Instead of becoming a full-time wrestler, she has focused on supporting her family while occasionally participating in wrestling-related productions. Her appearances in documentaries and television projects have helped fans gain a closer look at the Rhodes family’s personal life beyond professional wrestling.
Although she keeps a relatively private lifestyle, she remains an important part of one of wrestling’s most influential families.
Early Life and Childhood
Teil Margaret Runnels was born on September 12, 1982, in Austin, Texas, USA. Growing up as the daughter of Dusty Rhodes meant being surrounded by the wrestling industry from an early age.
Her father was one of the biggest names in professional wrestling, respected not only for his success inside the ring but also for mentoring future wrestling stars. Despite the fame surrounding her family, Teil experienced a balanced upbringing that emphasized education, family values, and personal growth.
Her American upbringing exposed her to the entertainment industry while allowing her to develop interests outside wrestling.
Education
Education has always been an important part of Teil Runnels’ journey. She graduated from the University of Texas, where she completed her higher education before pursuing creative interests.
Interested in acting, she later attended the Howard Fine Acting Studio in Los Angeles, one of the respected acting schools in the United States. This training allowed her to develop performance skills and prepared her for appearances in television and documentary projects connected to the Rhodes family.
Although acting never became her primary profession, her educational background reflects her interest in entertainment beyond wrestling.
Teil Runnels Biography at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Teil Margaret Runnels Gergel |
| Date of Birth | September 12, 1982 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 43 years |
| Place of Birth | Austin, Texas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christian |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Parents | Dusty Rhodes and Michelle Rubio |
| Siblings | Dustin Rhodes (half-brother), Kristin Runnels Ditto (half-sister), Cody Rhodes (younger brother) |
| Education | University of Texas; Howard Fine Acting Studio |
| Profession | Former AEW team member, celebrity family member, stay-at-home mother |
| Husband | Kevin Gergel |
| Marriage | November 1, 2008 |
| Children | Kellan and Maris |
| Residence | Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
The Rhodes Wrestling Family Legacy
The Rhodes family has left a lasting mark on professional wrestling, and Teil Runnels is an important member of this celebrated family.
Her father, Dusty Rhodes, became one of wrestling’s greatest personalities through his charisma, storytelling, and unforgettable promos. His influence continues today through generations of wrestlers who credit him as a mentor.
Teil’s younger brother, Cody Rhodes, has become one of modern wrestling’s biggest stars. After helping launch All Elite Wrestling (AEW), he returned to WWE and established himself as one of the industry’s leading performers.
Her half-brother, Dustin Rhodes, has enjoyed an extraordinary wrestling career spanning multiple decades and promotions.
Growing up among such influential personalities naturally connected Teil to wrestling history, even though she chose a different path from her brothers.
Relationship with Dusty Rhodes
Being the daughter of Dusty Rhodes has shaped much of Teil’s public identity. Dusty was admired not only as a wrestling legend but also as a devoted father who valued family deeply.
Following his passing in 2015, the Rhodes family has consistently honored his legacy through documentaries, charitable work, and public appearances.
Teil has frequently supported projects celebrating her father’s contributions to professional wrestling and continues to preserve his memory through family initiatives.
Her connection to Dusty Rhodes remains one of the primary reasons fans continue searching for information about her today.
Career and Connection with AEW
Unlike her father and brothers, Teil Runnels did not pursue a full-time wrestling career. Instead, she became known through selective appearances connected to the Rhodes family’s wrestling legacy. She has been associated with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) as a former team member, contributing behind the scenes rather than competing regularly inside the ring. Her involvement allowed fans to see another member of the Rhodes family participate in the wrestling world while maintaining a more private lifestyle.
Although her time with AEW was not centered on championship matches or weekly television appearances, her presence reflected the close bond shared by the Rhodes family. Wrestling fans appreciated seeing her support family events and major milestones, particularly during periods when Cody Rhodes was helping shape the early years of AEW.
Rather than seeking personal fame, Teil has consistently chosen to remain in the background, allowing her family members to take center stage while she supports them in meaningful ways.
Television and Documentary Appearances
While Teil Runnels has stayed away from a full-time entertainment career, she has appeared in several productions that document the Rhodes family’s journey.
One of her notable appearances came in Rhodes to the Top (2021), a reality television series that followed Cody Rhodes, Brandi Rhodes, and their family life. The series offered viewers a closer look at the relationships that exist beyond wrestling storylines, and Teil’s appearance helped showcase the family’s strong personal connection.
She also appeared in the documentary American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes (2023). The documentary focused on Cody Rhodes’ remarkable career and included insights from family members who witnessed his journey from childhood to becoming one of wrestling’s biggest stars. Teil’s contribution added personal perspective and highlighted the values shared within the Rhodes family.
In addition to these productions, fans have also seen her make appearances connected with AEW Dynamite, reinforcing her ongoing relationship with the wrestling community even though she has never been an active in-ring performer.
Marriage to Kevin Gergel
Teil Runnels has enjoyed a long and stable marriage with Kevin Gergel. The couple married on November 1, 2008, beginning a new chapter focused on family life.
Unlike many celebrity couples who regularly share their personal lives online, Teil and Kevin have chosen to keep much of their relationship private. This decision has allowed them to maintain a sense of normalcy despite belonging to one of wrestling’s most recognized families.
Over the years, they have supported one another through family celebrations, charitable activities, and important milestones connected to the Rhodes family.
Their marriage has now lasted well over a decade, reflecting the couple’s commitment to privacy, stability, and raising their children away from constant public attention.
Children and Family Life
Teil Runnels and Kevin Gergel are proud parents of two children, a son named Kellan and a daughter named Maris.
Motherhood has become one of the defining aspects of Teil’s life. Rather than pursuing a demanding public career, she has focused much of her time on raising her children and supporting their growth.
Friends and family members often describe the Rhodes family as being close-knit, and Teil has continued that tradition by placing family relationships at the center of her life.
Although she occasionally appears during wrestling-related events and documentaries, her children have largely been kept away from excessive media attention, giving them the opportunity to enjoy a more private upbringing.
Life in Atlanta, Georgia
Today, Teil Runnels resides in Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband and children.
Atlanta has long been associated with professional wrestling history, making it a fitting place for members of the Rhodes family. Living there also allows Teil to remain connected with relatives while enjoying a quieter lifestyle away from the constant spotlight.
Her current life revolves around family responsibilities, community involvement, and supporting charitable initiatives that reflect the values passed down by her father.
Despite her famous surname, Teil has intentionally created a balanced life that prioritizes personal relationships over public recognition.
Supporting the Dusty Rhodes Foundation
One of the most meaningful aspects of Teil Runnels’ public work is her support for the Dusty Rhodes Foundation.
The foundation honors Dusty Rhodes’ lifelong commitment to helping young people achieve their dreams within sports entertainment. It provides encouragement and opportunities for aspiring talent who hope to build careers in wrestling and related industries.
Teil has actively supported the foundation’s mission, helping preserve her father’s legacy through programs that inspire future generations. Her involvement demonstrates that her connection to wrestling extends beyond television appearances and into charitable work that creates lasting opportunities for others.
By supporting the foundation, she continues to celebrate the values of mentorship, hard work, and generosity that defined Dusty Rhodes throughout his life.
Personal Interests and Private Lifestyle
Although Teil Runnels belongs to one of wrestling’s most famous families, she has consistently preferred a quiet and private lifestyle.
She rarely seeks media attention, gives very few public interviews, or maintains a highly visible social media presence. This approach has allowed her to focus on the people and responsibilities that matter most to her.
Her earlier studies at the Howard Fine Acting Studio demonstrate an interest in performance and storytelling, yet she ultimately chose family life over pursuing acting as a full-time profession.
Fans often appreciate this balance because it reflects authenticity rather than celebrity culture. Instead of building a public image around constant exposure, Teil has remained grounded while continuing to support her family’s achievements.
Relationship with Cody Rhodes
Teil shares a particularly close bond with her younger brother, Cody Rhodes.
Throughout Cody’s wrestling career, from his early WWE years to helping launch AEW and eventually returning to WWE, Teil has remained one of his strongest supporters. Their family connection has been evident in documentaries and television appearances, where viewers have seen the encouragement and respect shared between siblings.
Following the passing of Dusty Rhodes, the family became even more united in preserving his legacy. Teil has participated in projects that celebrate her father’s influence while also supporting Cody as he carries the Rhodes family name into a new generation of professional wrestling.
Her role may be less public than Cody’s, but her support has remained consistent throughout his career.
Relationship with Dustin Rhodes and the Extended Family
Teil Runnels also shares a connection with her half-brother, Dustin Rhodes, one of the most respected veterans in professional wrestling. Dustin built an impressive career spanning several decades, competing across major wrestling promotions and earning recognition for his dedication to the industry.
Although Dustin and Cody followed different paths within wrestling, family has always remained an important part of the Rhodes legacy. Teil has maintained strong relationships with both brothers, and family gatherings, documentaries, and special events have highlighted the respect they have for one another.
She is also related to her half-sister, Kristin Runnels Ditto, completing a family that has remained closely connected despite living largely outside the constant spotlight. Their shared commitment to honoring Dusty Rhodes continues to strengthen those relationships.
Lesser-Known Facts About Teil Runnels
Several interesting facts help paint a clearer picture of Teil Runnels beyond her connection to professional wrestling.
She was born under the Virgo zodiac sign on September 12, 1982.
She is an American citizen who was born in Austin, Texas, and later established her home in Atlanta, Georgia.
Although she studied acting in Los Angeles, she never pursued acting as a long-term profession.
She graduated from the University of Texas before receiving professional acting training.
Rather than becoming a professional wrestler, she chose to focus on raising her family.
She has appeared in wrestling-related productions without becoming a regular television personality.
Her charitable work includes supporting the Dusty Rhodes Foundation, helping young people interested in sports entertainment.
She values privacy and keeps most aspects of her personal life away from media attention.
Teil Runnels in 2026
As of 2026, Teil Runnels is 43 years old and continues to live in Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband, Kevin Gergel, and their two children, Kellan and Maris.
She remains connected to the wrestling world through family events and projects celebrating the Rhodes legacy rather than through an active wrestling career. Fans occasionally see her in documentaries or special appearances, but her everyday life is centered on her family and charitable work.
Her support for the Dusty Rhodes Foundation reflects her ongoing commitment to preserving her father’s legacy while encouraging future generations interested in sports entertainment.
Although she has never pursued the same level of public recognition as other members of her family, she continues to be admired by wrestling fans who appreciate her role in maintaining the Rhodes family’s traditions and values.
Legacy Beyond Wrestling
Not every member of a legendary wrestling family chooses to build a career inside the ring. Teil Runnels represents a different kind of legacy—one based on family, support, and preserving the history of one of professional wrestling’s most respected names.
Her contributions may not be measured by championships or headline matches, but they can be seen in her dedication to her children, her husband, and the charitable work that honors Dusty Rhodes’ lifelong passion for helping others.
As documentaries and biographies continue to celebrate the Rhodes family, Teil’s role becomes increasingly important in showing the personal side of a family known primarily for its success in wrestling.
Her story demonstrates that being part of a famous family does not require constant public attention. Instead, she has built a meaningful life centered on love, family, and carrying forward values that have defined the Rhodes name for generations.
Conclusion
Teil Runnels has earned recognition as an important member of the legendary Rhodes wrestling family while choosing a life focused on family rather than fame. Born on September 12, 1982, in Austin, Texas, she grew up surrounded by professional wrestling but followed a different path from her father, Dusty Rhodes, and her brothers, Cody Rhodes and Dustin Rhodes.
Her education at the University of Texas and the Howard Fine Acting Studio reflects her interest in the entertainment industry, while her appearances in AEW Dynamite, Rhodes to the Top, and American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes have allowed fans to know more about her life. Married to Kevin Gergel since November 1, 2008, and the mother of Kellan and Maris, Teil has built a fulfilling life in Atlanta, Georgia.
Alongside raising her family, she continues supporting the Dusty Rhodes Foundation and helps preserve the remarkable legacy left behind by one of wrestling’s greatest icons. Although she prefers privacy over publicity, her place within the Rhodes family ensures that she remains an admired figure among wrestling fans around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Teil Runnels in 2026?
Teil Runnels is 43 years old as of 2026. She was born on September 12, 1982.
Who is Teil Runnels’ husband?
Teil Runnels is married to Kevin Gergel. The couple married on November 1, 2008.
Does Teil Runnels have children?
Yes. She has two children, a son named Kellan and a daughter named Maris.
What is Teil Runnels known for?
Teil Runnels is known for being the daughter of wrestling legend Dusty Rhodes, the older sister of Cody Rhodes, and a member of the famous Rhodes wrestling family. She has also appeared in AEW-related projects, Rhodes to the Top, and American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes, while primarily focusing on her family and supporting the Dusty Rhodes Foundation.
Where does Teil Runnels live now?
As of 2026, Teil Runnels lives in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, with her husband and children.
