Blondie’s Debbie Harry Revealed She Preferred “Atlanta” Over “New York” in 1983 Letterman Appearance

If you ever thought Debbie Harry's rebellious cool was confined to the gritty stages of CBGB or the pages of Punk magazine, think again. In a fascinating and utterly delightful 1983 appearance on Late Night with David Letterman, the Blondie frontwoman revealed a surprising passion: professional wrestling. And not just any wrestling – she had strong opinions on who reigned supreme in the squared circle.

Turns out, Debbie wasn't always a wrestling aficionado. She credits her now-husband and Blondie guitarist, Chris Stein, for pulling her into the captivating world of piledrivers and body slams. "My paramour and partner in crime, Chris Stein, got me into watching wrestling," she told Letterman with a wry smile. It's easy to picture the iconic duo, post-gig, settling in to catch the latest grapple-fest.

But here's where it gets interesting. While many New Yorkers in the early 80s were undoubtedly glued to Vince McMahon's burgeoning WWF (World Wrestling Federation) out of their hometown, Debbie Harry had a distinct preference. "We watch wrestling from New York and Atlanta," she explained, drawing a clear distinction. And the winner in her book? "We prefer the Atlanta shows," she declared, adding, "they're a little bit funkier, a little more crazy."

This preference for "Atlanta" meant a love for Jim Crockett Promotions, a Southern-based powerhouse known for its hard-hitting style and more grounded, less theatrical approach compared to McMahon's increasingly nationalized and character-driven WWF. It speaks volumes about Harry's taste – an appreciation for something a bit rougher around the edges, a bit more unpredictable.

Of course, no conversation about pro wrestling, especially in the 80s, could avoid the age-old question: is it real? Letterman, ever the provocateur, naturally brought it up. Debbie, with her signature deadpan humor, delivered a line that perfectly encapsulated the unique appeal of wrestling. Amidst the economic anxieties of the time, she quipped that wrestling was "something you can still believe in." It was a knowing wink to the audience, acknowledging the theatricality while celebrating the undeniable escapism and emotional investment it offered.

It just goes to show, even a punk icon with platinum hair and a stare that could melt ice has her guilty pleasures. And for Debbie Harry, in 1983, that pleasure was undoubtedly found in the "funkier" and "crazier" world of Atlanta pro wrestling, shared with her "partner in crime," Chris Stein. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport, capable of captivating even the coolest of cats.

Here is the full interview: