Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering WWE.
A Look Behind the Curtain: Fact or Fiction?
Netflix’s new six part documentary series, Mr. McMahon, aims to "pull back the curtain" on Vince McMahon, the former WWE boss, focusing on his life, career, and the scandals that have trailed him. The series features interviews with McMahon himself, family members, wrestlers, and business associates, but it leaves viewers wondering does it truly unmask the real Vince McMahon?
A Controversial Figure with a Complex Legacy
Vince McMahon, a figure both revered and reviled, is at the heart of the documentary. Throughout the series, McMahon shares insights into his decades long career, during which he built WWE into a global entertainment empire. However, the documentary is not without its missing pieces. McMahon withdrew from filming after being accused of sex trafficking by a former employee, Janel Grant, in a lawsuit that he vehemently denies. This absence of crucial details has been noted by critics, who feel the series suffers from the lack of McMahon’s input during this critical moment.
Exploring Scandals and Allegations
The documentary touches on various scandals surrounding McMahon, including WWE's portrayal of women during the Attitude Era and allegations of misconduct. One of the most prominent allegations discussed is the rape accusation by WWE’s first female referee, Rita Chatterton. McMahon denies the claim, and last year reportedly reached a multimillion dollar settlement with Chatterton. These moments are contrasted with McMahon's comments about his battle with the U.S. government over steroid distribution charges, where he portrays himself as a victim of government overreach.
WWE's Troubled Relationship with Women
The series delves into WWE’s controversial history of portraying women, particularly during the late '90s. Former WWE Women’s Champion Trish Stratus reflects on the era, describing how women were treated more as "eye candy" than athletes. McMahon’s daughter, Stephanie, acknowledges the problematic storylines but frames them as part of a different time in wrestling.
Ruthless Business Moves
McMahon’s reputation as a ruthless businessman is also highlighted, including his infamous 1997 "Montreal Screwjob" incident involving Bret "The Hitman" Hart. McMahon changed the scripted outcome of Hart’s match, leading to the loss of Hart’s championship in front of his home crowd. McMahon remains unapologetic about his actions, stating that he would do whatever it takes for business.
Vince McMahon vs. Mr. McMahon
One of the central themes of the documentary is the blurred line between Vince McMahon the man and his fictional alter ego, "Mr. McMahon," a character known for abusing power. McMahon himself admits that the lines between his real-life persona and his character are often blurred, leaving viewers to wonder how much of what they see is the real Vince. Even his closest associates and family members offer varying opinions on whether Mr. McMahon is a reflection of the real Vince McMahon or merely an exaggerated version of him.
Does the Documentary Unmask Vince McMahon?
Ultimately, Mr. McMahon provides a detailed look at the life and controversies of Vince McMahon but stops short of offering new revelations about his true self. While it covers significant aspects of his career and scandals, critics argue that the documentary doesn’t go deep enough to fully unmask the man behind WWE’s success. The series instead leaves viewers with more questions than answers about the real Vince McMahon.
