Dracula's Kung Fu Theatre

Vlad "Dracula" has mysterious origins, but here's what is known.

Born Vlad Tepes the Third in 1428 A.D., he was the son of an insane cobbler and countess. His childhood years were peaceful, spending his time as a goat herder and cheesemonger.

Upon his father's accession to the throne of Wallachia, which would later become Transylvania, young Vlad's life was forever changed by royalty. Developing a penchant for war and impaling his enemies on spikes, he was feared for his brutality and bloodlust. This quickly gained him the moniker "Vlad the Impaler," which made him quite popular with the ladies of the era.

The next 50 years of his mortal life are somewhat murky. It's known that at some point he started referring to himself as Dracula, or the Son of the Dragon. He was also reported to drink the blood of his enemies and was both hero of Romania and a terror of the world. Experts say this is probably what made him a vampire, but only Dracula knows for sure, and he has repeatedly replied "No comment." when questioned.