Intro
Maria Kanellis was born on February 25, 1982 in Ottawa, Illinois. Prior to entering the world of wrestling she appeared on the reality TV show Outback Jack. That show can best be described as Crocodile Dundee meets the Bachelor. Maria made it to the final three before having her heart broken. But just like the boomerang used in the outback, Maria would return to television in another elimination contest.
2004 Diva Search:
Maria was first introduced to WWE fans as a contestant in the inaugural Diva Search contest. While that contest was won by Christy Hemme, Maria was still offered a contract with the WWE.
Interviewer
Maria became an on-air personality as a backstage announcer. Even though she is a brunette, her character can best be described as a dumb blond. She would frequently make mistakes and appear to be exceptionally ditsy. In addition, to her role as an interviewer, she occasionally steps into the ring to wrestle and had a segment called the Kiss Cam where she would encourage couples in the audience to kiss each other when they were shown on the Titantron.
Santino Marella and Playboy:
In 2007, Maria started an on-air relationship with Santino Marella. He would frequently take advantage of her innocence and would constantly insult her. The couple is currently having an issue because Ashley, a former Playboy cover girl, informed Maria that Hugh Hefner wants her to appear in the magazine. Santino does not wish to see his Maria appear in a "Booby Magazine". Despite his objections, she is scheduled to appear in the magazine that will hit shelves shortly before WrestleMania 24.