Netflix has released the trailer for its highly anticipated six-part docuseries on Vince McMahon, and it’s already generating considerable buzz due to its inclusion of the sexual misconduct allegations made against the former WWE Chairman. The trailer indicates that while the documentary has been in production for several years, it won’t shy away from the controversial and scandalous aspects of McMahon’s legacy, particularly the accusations that have cast a shadow over his career in recent years.
The documentary, titled Mr. McMahon, was initially announced years ago and has since faced significant delays and speculation, especially due to the mounting legal and public relations issues surrounding McMahon. However, the latest trailer confirms that the series will address these allegations, promising a comprehensive look at one of the most polarizing figures in professional wrestling history.
As the release date approaches, various wrestling personalities and insiders have begun discussing the documentary and its potential impact. During a recent episode of Konnan’s Keepin’ It 100 podcast, wrestling podcaster Conrad Thompson shared some inside information about the documentary. According to Thompson, the docuseries will be quite critical of McMahon, something that has caused discontent among certain circles within WWE.
“It’s a hit piece they don’t like,” Thompson revealed during the conversation. He pointed out that the documentary might not portray McMahon in the best light, which has reportedly ruffled feathers within WWE. Konnan noted that Bill Simmons, the well-known sports journalist and media personality, is involved in the production of the docuseries, adding, “Yeah, because Bill Simmons is doing it. He does what he wants.” Simmons, who has a history of diving deep into controversial subjects through his work, is known for taking a hard, honest look at his subjects, which may explain why WWE officials are concerned about the tone of the series.
Thompson elaborated further on why he believes the documentary will be particularly scathing. “[Simmons] is talking to [David] Shoemaker and [Dave] Meltzer. It’s an absolute double shovel burial,” Thompson said.
Disco Inferno, another guest on the podcast, chimed in to offer his perspective. He admitted that while he understands the critical approach of the documentary, it is difficult for him to join in on the harsh criticism of wrestling legends like McMahon and Hulk Hogan. “I can’t ever pile in on guys like that because I’m in this business because of people like them,” Disco said, reflecting on the significant impact McMahon and other wrestling icons have had on the industry, despite their controversial pasts. Disco expressed discomfort with how some in the wrestling community have relentlessly criticized figures like Hogan and McMahon, stating that it feels unfair to overlook their contributions to the industry, “regardless of the bad things they’ve done.”
Conrad, however, took a more nuanced approach, comparing the situation to the complicated legacy of another wrestling figure, Chris Benoit. Benoit, who was responsible for a tragic murder-suicide, remains a divisive figure in wrestling history, and Thompson acknowledged the difficulty of separating the artist from the person. “If you read the original report, certainly it was slanted to read a certain way. Either way, it’s hard to read that and not be a little taken aback,” Thompson said in reference to the sexual misconduct allegations against McMahon.
He went on to explain that while McMahon’s personal conduct has been shocking and disappointing, it doesn’t erase the impact he’s had on professional wrestling. “Now it’s like okay, not everybody is all good or all bad. He created some real magic for millions of people, myself included. But he wasn’t always a great guy. I think if you go back and look up almost any of our heroes, whether they’re in entertainment, music or whatever, those folks disappoint you.”
Thompson concluded by stating that for him, it’s possible to still appreciate McMahon’s work in the wrestling world while acknowledging his faults. “That doesn’t mean you have to give up enjoying their previous work,” he said, referencing the difficulty some fans and wrestlers have in revisiting old WWE content knowing McMahon’s role in its creation.
He also recognized that not everyone can separate McMahon’s personal failings from his professional accomplishments. “I can understand people who can’t go back and watch things from the past because of people like McMahon being part of that history, etc., but it’s not my experience.” For Thompson, the ability to appreciate the art of wrestling and the joy it brought to millions is still intact, even as McMahon’s personal reputation faces a serious hit.
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