A new Netflix documentary titled “Mr. McMahon” aims to reveal the true story of Vince McMahon, the former head of WWE, but the effectiveness of its portrayal is subject to discussion. This six-part series delves into McMahon’s life, career, and the controversies surrounding him. It includes interviews with McMahon, his family, former wrestlers, and business associates. However, some critics argue that it may not provide new insights into who McMahon really is, particularly as he withdrew from filming following serious allegations made by a former employee concerning sex trafficking. As a result, the documentary is seen by some as lacking a crucial perspective.
McMahon himself has criticized the series as being “misleading,” claiming it conflates his on-screen persona with his real self. Earlier this year, he resigned from WWE’s parent company after ex-employee Janel Grant accused him of sex trafficking, charges he strongly denies. The documentary touches on past allegations, such as those made by Rita Chatterton, WWE’s first female referee, who accused him of rape, to which McMahon responds by calling it “consensual.” He also references a complex legal battle with the U.S. government over illegal steroid distribution, where he was ultimately found not guilty.
The portrayal of women during WWE’s historical “Attitude Era” (1997-2002) also receives critical examination in the series. Former WWE star Trish Stratus recounts how female performers were often viewed as “eye candy,” with roles that were inherently sexualized. Anthony White, also known as Tony Atlas, reflects on how these portrayals would be viewed unfavorably in today’s society. McMahon’s daughter, Stephanie, describes how past storylines involving her were sometimes “weird,” comprehending the past as a product of its time.
The documentary delves into some of McMahon’s controversial business practices that forged his notorious reputation. One infamous incident involved the 1997 “screwjob” of Bret Hart, where McMahon, dealing with tensions over Hart’s impending move to a rival promotion, orchestrated a change in the match outcome during a live event. McMahon defends these actions as part of “show business” and emphasizes his dedication to business.
Vince McMahon shares details of his troubled childhood, discussing the abuse he faced and his own parenting approach with his children, Shane and Stephanie. This introspective theme recurs throughout the series, though it remains ambiguous whether he is fully revealing himself or maintaining the facade of his wrestling alter-ego. Critics suggest this distinction allows him to evade accountability, as he grapples with the blurred lines between reality and fiction in the wrestling world.
Friends and family members express varying views on the relationship between McMahon and his on-screen identity. Some believe Mr. McMahon is an exaggerated extension of Vince McMahon, while others contend that the character closely resembles the man himself. The documentary captures the complexity of this duality, although a definitive understanding of McMahon’s true self remains elusive.