Carol J. Woliung is best known as the former wife of baseball icon Pete Rose, one of the most talented yet controversial figures in Major League Baseball history. But beyond her connection to Rose, Carol built her own identity as a former Playboy Bunny, Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader, and devoted mother.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Carol played a key role in the private world of America’s most polarizing sports figure. Her story blends glamour, sports culture, and resilience, offering a rare glimpse into the life of a woman who lived through fame, scandal, and personal reinvention.
| Full Name | Carol J. Woliung |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Place of Birth | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Religion | Christianity (not confirmed) |
| Education | Not publicly known |
| Profession | Former Playboy Bunny, Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader |
| Famous For | Ex-wife of baseball legend Pete Rose |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Husband | Pete Rose (m. 1984 – div. 2011) |
| Children | Two (including daughter Chea Courtney Rose) |
| Daughter’s Profession | Actress (Passions, Melrose Place, 7th Heaven) |
| Known For | Elegance, resilience, and grace under public scrutiny |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Hazel |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | Around $1 – $2 million (approx.) |
| Residence (Current) | United States |
| Personality Traits | Private, poised, strong, family-oriented |
| Years Active in Public Eye | 1980s–2010s |
| Notable Affiliations | Philadelphia Eagles, Playboy Club |
| Relationship to Fame | Ex-wife of MLB icon Pete Rose |
| Current Status (2025) | Living privately, focusing on family and personal life |
Early Life and Background
Born and raised in the United States, Carol J. Woliung spent her formative years cultivating interests in performance, dance, and public presentation. While details of her early family life and education remain private, her later career as a cheerleader and model suggests she had a strong foundation in fitness, charisma, and discipline — qualities that would define her early professional journey.
Her youthful ambition led her to work in the entertainment industry, where she gained regional recognition before crossing paths with future baseball superstar Pete Rose.
Career Beginnings: From Cheerleader to Playboy Bunny
Before gaining public attention as Pete Rose’s wife, Carol Woliung had already made her mark in entertainment. She began as a cheerleader for the Philadelphia Eagles, where her energy and stage presence drew attention.
Her cheerleading experience opened doors to modeling and hospitality work, leading her to become a Playboy Bunny, one of the most prestigious roles for young women in the 1970s and 1980s. Working as a Bunny was not just about glamour — it required professionalism, confidence, and poise. This chapter of Carol’s life reflected her independence and ambition long before she became associated with fame through marriage.
Meeting Pete Rose: The Beginning of a High-Profile Romance
Carol J. Woliung met Pete Rose — also known as “Charlie Hustle” — in the early 1980s. By that time, Rose was already a household name in baseball, playing for the Cincinnati Reds and Philadelphia Phillies, and known for his relentless competitiveness.
Their meeting sparked a whirlwind romance, one that quickly drew attention from sports fans and the media. Despite Pete’s growing fame — and the intense scrutiny that came with it — Carol embraced life in the public eye with grace and composure.
Marriage to Pete Rose
In 1984, Carol Woliung married Pete Rose, becoming his second wife. Their marriage marked the union of two public personalities — a sports legend and an entertainment professional — during one of the most visible periods in Pete Rose’s career.
Their relationship was often highlighted in tabloids and sports columns, not only because of Rose’s legendary baseball stats but also due to his growing controversies. Still, Carol managed to maintain a sense of dignity and family focus despite the spotlight.
Life in the Public Eye
Being married to one of baseball’s most famous (and later infamous) players meant that Carol J. Woliung often found herself thrust into media attention. Pete Rose’s career at that time was still thriving — he was breaking records and celebrated as the all-time Major League Baseball hits leader.
Carol accompanied her husband to games, events, and charity appearances, often embodying the image of the devoted sports spouse. Yet behind the scenes, she also navigated the challenges of being married to a man whose life revolved around constant public scrutiny.
Motherhood and Family Life
Carol and Pete Rose shared two children together — including their daughter Chea Courtney (Rose), who went on to become a child actress known for roles in Passions, Melrose Place, and The Practice.
As a mother, Carol J. Woliung prioritized family stability amid the chaos of fame. She ensured her children had access to quality education and opportunities beyond their father’s athletic fame. Her role as a mother became her central focus, especially as Pete’s personal and professional controversies grew.
Daughter: Chea Courtney – A Child Star in Hollywood
One of Carol’s greatest sources of pride is her daughter Chea Courtney Rose, who achieved success in television as a child. Chea starred in the daytime soap Passions and made appearances on shows like Melrose Place and 7th Heaven.
Chea’s natural talent and charisma reflect the creative energy of her parents — a mix of Carol’s performance background and Pete’s competitive drive. Though she eventually stepped away from acting, her early career marked a bright chapter in the Rose family legacy.
Life During Pete Rose’s Scandals
The 1980s and 1990s were tumultuous years for Pete Rose — and by extension, for Carol J. Woliung. In 1989, Pete was permanently banned from baseball after a gambling scandal revealed he had bet on MLB games while managing the Cincinnati Reds.
This controversy dominated headlines and strained Rose’s personal life. Despite the immense pressure, Carol remained committed to her family, offering stability for their children while the public and media dissected every aspect of their private lives.
Her ability to maintain grace and silence during one of baseball’s biggest scandals showcased her strength and character.
The Marriage Decline and Divorce
After years of turmoil, Carol J. Woliung and Pete Rose divorced in 2011, ending a marriage that had lasted more than 27 years. The couple’s separation was amicable but reflected years of personal challenges and lifestyle differences.
Their divorce settlement included shared financial arrangements and custody considerations, though both have since moved forward independently. Despite the split, Carol maintained her dignity, choosing not to engage in public disputes or controversy.
Life After Divorce
Following her divorce, Carol J. Woliung stepped back from the public eye. She focused on her children and her personal well-being, rarely appearing in media or interviews. Unlike many ex-spouses of celebrities, Carol chose privacy over publicity — a testament to her grounded nature.
Today, she reportedly lives a peaceful life outside of Hollywood or sports media circles, occasionally appearing at family events but largely maintaining anonymity.
Relationship with Pete Rose After Divorce
Despite their separation, Carol and Pete Rose reportedly remained on civil terms, maintaining mutual respect as co-parents. Their shared focus on their children, particularly Chea, has kept them connected.
Pete later became engaged to model Kiana Kim, which drew some media attention, but Carol J. Woliung refrained from public commentary, demonstrating her consistent preference for privacy and grace.
Carol J. Woliung’s Personality and Character
Friends and acquaintances describe Carol as strong, kind, and poised, with a natural sense of independence. Her years as a cheerleader and entertainer gave her resilience, and her time as Pete Rose’s wife taught her patience under scrutiny.
She embodies quiet strength — someone who thrived amid fame yet found peace outside of it.
Career Beyond Marriage
Though her early life was marked by work as a Playboy Bunny and NFL cheerleader, Carol Woliung also explored other ventures after her marriage. She is believed to have worked in marketing, event planning, and philanthropy, though she has never publicized specific career details.
What’s clear, however, is her commitment to creating an identity beyond the fame of her ex-husband — something few manage successfully after years in the limelight.
Connection to Sports and Entertainment
Even after stepping back from the public sphere, Carol Woliung’s legacy in sports and entertainment remains tied to two iconic American institutions: Major League Baseball and the Philadelphia Eagles. Her early career as a cheerleader showcased her athleticism and charm, while her marriage to Pete Rose connected her permanently to baseball history.
Her experiences give her a unique perspective on both industries — one where fame and discipline often collide.
Pete Rose: A Look at Her Former Husband’s Legacy
Pete Rose, Carol’s ex-husband, remains one of the most debated figures in sports history. Known for his fiery determination and record-breaking hits, Rose’s career was overshadowed by his lifetime ban from baseball for gambling.
Throughout those challenging years, Carol Woliung was part of his support system, standing by him even as the public turned against him. Her loyalty during that era reflected deep emotional endurance — a defining quality of her life story.
Net Worth and Financial Overview
While Carol J. Woliung’s personal net worth remains undisclosed, her financial stability is likely derived from her long marriage to Pete Rose and her independent ventures.
Pete Rose’s net worth is estimated at around $3–4 million, following decades of sports earnings, endorsements, and media appearances. During their divorce, Carol received an equitable settlement, which enabled her to maintain a comfortable lifestyle post-marriage.
Public Perception and Legacy
Despite her limited media presence, Carol J. Woliung remains a figure of quiet respect. Her story resonates with those who admire strength and discretion — traits rarely seen in celebrity circles.
For many, she symbolizes a bygone era of sports culture — when partners of athletes balanced glamour with grace, often away from the cameras.
Where is Carol J. Woliung Now?
As of 2025, Carol Woliung lives a private and low-profile life, likely residing in the U.S., away from media attention. Her daughter, Chea Courtney, occasionally shares glimpses of family moments, but Carol herself remains intentionally out of the public spotlight.
Her journey from Playboy Bunny to sports wife to private citizen illustrates a full and evolving life built on independence and quiet strength.
Conclusion: A Life of Grace, Resilience, and Privacy
Carol J. Woliung’s life story intertwines with one of America’s greatest sports legends — yet she stands on her own as a woman of strength, beauty, and resilience. From her early days as a performer to her decades-long marriage to Pete Rose, Carol navigated fame and scandal with dignity.
Today, her legacy endures not because of controversy, but because of her unwavering grace. She is a reminder that behind every public figure lies someone who chooses to live with authenticity, even when the world is watching.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Carol J. Woliung?
Carol J. Woliung is a former Playboy Bunny and Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader, best known as the ex-wife of baseball legend Pete Rose.
2. When was Carol J. Woliung married to Pete Rose?
She was married to Pete Rose from 1984 until 2011.
3. Does Carol J. Woliung have children?
Yes, she has two children, including Chea Courtney Rose, a former television child actress.
4. What is Carol J. Woliung doing now?
She currently leads a private life, away from media attention, focusing on family and personal pursuits.
5. How long were Carol and Pete Rose married?
They were married for approximately 27 years before divorcing amicably.
6. Was Carol Woliung involved in sports?
Yes, she was a Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader before her marriage to Pete Rose.
7. What is Carol Woliung’s connection to Hollywood?
Through her daughter Chea Courtney, who appeared in shows like Melrose Place and Passions, Carol has indirect ties to the entertainment industry.
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