"Mr. McMahon": Netflix Docuseries Explores the Rise and Fall of WWE Icon
The highly anticipated Netflix docuseries delving into the life and career of former WWE chairman Vince McMahon, titled "Mr. McMahon," has finally secured a release date. The six-part series, each episode clocking in at an hour, will premiere on 25 September.
"Mr. McMahon" promises an in-depth examination of the controversial figure, charting his journey from transforming the WWE from a regional operation to a global entertainment powerhouse to the allegations of sexual misconduct that ultimately led to his resignation. The series will draw on over 200 hours of interviews with McMahon himself (prior to his resignation), his family, business associates, prominent figures in wrestling history, and journalists who uncovered the allegations.
Filmmaker Chris Smith, known for his work on "Tiger King," and executive producer Bill Simmons, renowned for his "30 for 30" series, present a "no-holds-barred" look at the enigmatic McMahon. The docuseries aims to offer a nuanced portrayal of the man and his legacy, delving into the complex individual hidden behind the public persona he projected.
The docuseries was initially announced in October 2020. Less than two years later, McMahon stepped down from his WWE leadership role amid investigations into misconduct allegations by the WWE board. He made a surprise return to the company early in 2023 to negotiate its sale, culminating in the acquisition of WWE by Endeavor and its merger with UFC under the TKO Group banner. McMahon subsequently resigned from the TKO board after a former employee filed a lawsuit accusing him of sexual abuse and trafficking her to other men.
"The goal behind 'Mr. McMahon' was to pull back the curtain and reveal the true Vince McMahon," said Smith, who also serves as executive producer alongside Simmons and Zara Duffy. "Over the four years of production, the story evolved in truly shocking ways, culminating in some extremely harrowing allegations. The final product is a revealing documentary that we believe offers a rich and nuanced portrait of the man and the complex legacy he left behind."
The six-part "Mr. McMahon" series, produced by Library Films in association with Ringer Films, promises a captivating and thought-provoking look at one of the most prominent figures in the history of professional wrestling, and the controversies surrounding him. The release on Netflix on 25 September is sure to generate significant interest and debate.
