Wanderone, who was sometimes known by the nickname "New York Fats" in his role as a pool player, adopted the nickname "Minnesota Fats" from the character of that name in the 1961 film "The Hustler", falsely claiming that the character, played by Jackie Gleason, was based upon him. He parlayed the association with the film into his own book deals and television appearances, including a series of matches with rival Willie Mosconi. Later in life, Wanderone divorced Evelyn and moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he married his second wife, Theresa, with whom he remained until his death.