For 35 years, Dan Meers has been more than just a man in a costume: he has been the heart and soul of the Kansas City Chiefs‘ fan experience. As K.C. Wolf, the team’s larger-than-life mascot, Meers has entertained millions, witnessed three Super Bowl victories, and become an irreplaceable figure in Chiefs Kingdom. But what is it really like to spend decades inside a 35-pound furry suit? In an exclusive interview with People, Meers opens up about his journey, the physical demands of the job, and why he still loves every moment of it.
At 58 years old, Meers jokes that he still hasn’t gotten around to finding a “real job.” Instead, he has built a legendary career as K.C. Wolf, a seven-foot-tall, high-energy character known for his playful antics, wild dance moves, and even daring stunts-like zip-lining across Arrowhead Stadium.
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Before becoming a staple at Chiefs games, Meers got his start in mascotting as Truman the Tiger at the University of Missouri. His talents quickly gained attention, and after a short stint as Fredbird, the mascot for the St. Louis Cardinals, the Chiefs came calling. In 1989, they launched their mascot program and introduced K.C. Wolf to the world. Since then, Meers has been the only person to wear the suit, turning what could have been a temporary gig into a lifelong passion.
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The physical challenge behind the mask
Mascotting might look fun, but Meers insists it’s physically demanding. “Unlike an offensive lineman, I don’t have to be able to lift all kinds of heavy weights,” he tells People. “I just have to be able to put 30 pounds of fur on my body and dance around in a hot costume for three-and-a-half, four hours.”
To keep up with the demands of the job, Meers trains for endurance rather than strength, ensuring he can perform in extreme temperatures and for long stretches of time. His experience and commitment to staying in shape have allowed him to maintain the role for decades-longer than most NFL players stay in the league.
More than just game day
While K.C. Wolf is a game-day icon, Meers’ influence extends far beyond Arrowhead Stadium. He makes over 300 appearances per year at charity events, schools, and community gatherings, using his platform to make a positive impact.
“That’s what I love about the Chiefs,” he says. “They’re committed to excellence on the field, but they’re also committed to making an impact in the community.”
Over the years, Meers has traveled the world, speaking at events and visiting hospitals, always with the goal of spreading joy. His dedication to using his role for good is part of what has made K.C. Wolf such a beloved figure-not just among Chiefs fans, but across the entire NFL.
Super Bowl rings and banana pants
Having been with the Chiefs for their Super Bowl wins in 2020, 2023, and 2024, Meers has had the unique privilege of earning multiple championship rings-one for himself and another specially made to fit K.C. Wolf’s oversized hand.
And while football is his passion, he also takes his costume game seriously. K.C. Wolf’s wardrobe includes everything from donut-themed shirts to pink flamingo outfits and even banana pants. “I’ve got banana pants!” Meers exclaims in his People interview, proving that even after 35 years, he’s still having fun.
No plans to retire
As the Chiefs prepare for another Super Bowl appearance on February 9, Meers knows that the physical toll of the job isn’t getting any easier. “I guarantee I’ll wake up the next day feeling stiff and sore, thinking, ‘I should have retired five years ago,'” he admits.
But despite the aches and pains, Meers has no plans to hang up the suit just yet. “I still love what I do,” he says. “I love working for the Chiefs.”
After 35 years, countless games, and an unforgettable impact on Chiefs Kingdom, Dan Meers isn’t just a mascot-he’s a legend.
