Wayde King was born on September 19, 1969 in Long Island, New York. From a young age, he had an inherent love for aquatic life, which was fostered by his father, a fish dealer. Growing up, King had several fish tanks in the basement of his home, and he quickly became fascinated with the art of aquarium keeping. At just 14 years old, he began cleaning aquariums as a way to earn extra money, honing his skills and knowledge of fish and tanks.
As King continued to nurture his passion for fish and aquariums, he saw an opportunity to turn his hobby into a successful business venture. In 1997, he founded Acrylic Tank Manufacturing (ATM) in Las Vegas, Nevada, specializing in custom-made acrylic aquariums. King's craftsmanship and eye for design quickly gained recognition, and ATM became a leading provider of high-quality aquariums for clients around the world.
King's talents in aquarium design caught the attention of Animal Planet, leading to the creation of the hit reality series Tanked in 2011. The show followed King, along with his brother-in-law Brett Raymer, as they built extravagant and unique aquariums for a variety of clients, including celebrities and businesses. King's expertise, creativity, and larger-than-life personality shone through on the show, propelling him to fame and solidifying his reputation as a top aquarium designer.
One of the key elements that set Tanked apart from other reality shows was the dynamic between King and Raymer. The duo's banter and camaraderie added a lighthearted and entertaining element to the series, drawing in viewers from all walks of life. King's dedication to his craft and his genuine passion for creating stunning underwater habitats were evident in every episode, earning him a devoted fan base and critical acclaim.
Aside from his professional achievements, King is also an avid scuba diving enthusiast, further deepening his connection to the ocean and its inhabitants. His love for marine life extends beyond his work, showcasing a genuine commitment to conservation and environmental stewardship.
King's wife, Heather, plays an integral role in his life and career, appearing on Tanked as ATM's accountant. The couple's collaboration both on and off-screen demonstrates their strong partnership and shared commitment to building a successful business and a fulfilling life together.
Throughout his career, King has continued to push the boundaries of aquarium design, pushing the limits of creativity and innovation. His impact on the industry is undeniable, inspiring a new generation of aquarium enthusiasts and professionals to pursue their dreams with passion and dedication.
As he looks towards the future, King remains dedicated to expanding his business and sharing his love for fish and aquariums with the world. His legacy as a visionary entrepreneur and talented designer will undoubtedly endure, leaving a lasting mark on the world of aquatic artistry.
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