A new Netflix documentary titled “Mr. McMahon” aims to explore the life and career of Vince McMahon, the former WWE executive credited with transforming WWE into a global media powerhouse. This six-part series delves into McMahon’s personal life, his extensive career, and the scandals that have surrounded him. The documentary features interviews with McMahon, now 79, as well as his family, former wrestlers, and colleagues. However, opinions on whether it reveals new insights about McMahon remain mixed. He withdrew from filming after facing accusations from a former employee regarding sex trafficking, which some reviewers believe detracts from the documentary’s overall narrative.
McMahon has been candid in his criticism of the series, labeling it “misleading” and accusing its creators of blending his on-screen persona with his real self. Earlier this year, he resigned from WWE’s parent company following a lawsuit from ex-employee Janel Grant, which he has vehemently denied, describing the claims as false and vindictive. While the documentary does not focus on this recent lawsuit, it discusses earlier allegations, including a claim by WWE’s first female referee, Rita Chatterton, who accused McMahon of rape, an accusation he denies.
The portrayal of women in WWE, especially during the so-called Attitude Era from 1997 to 2002, is also addressed in the documentary. Former WWE star Trish Stratus reflects on how women were often seen as “eye candy,” and recalls instances of overly sexualized roles. Anthony White, known as Tony Atlas, concurs, asserting that the treatment of women during that time would have been viewed as unacceptable by today’s standards. McMahon’s daughter, Stephanie, acknowledges the past but describes it as a reflection of a different time in the wrestling business.
The documentary highlights McMahon’s reputation as a ruthless businessman, particularly through the infamous “Montreal Screwjob,” where he changed the outcome of a match involving Bret Hart without the wrestler’s knowledge. McMahon, who does not regret his actions, claims they were merely part of the business. He reflects on his challenging childhood and how it might have shaped his behavior as a father and leader, revealing he was strict with his children, Shane and Stephanie.
Throughout the series, McMahon grapples with his identity, stating, “I still haven’t quite figured out who I am.” The lines between his real persona and the character of Mr. McMahon often blur, as he contemplates the complex relationship between fact and fiction in the wrestling world. Family members and former colleagues share varying opinions about the similarities between McMahon and his on-screen character, with some suggesting a strong resemblance while others argue there are distinctions. Notably, Hulk Hogan asserts that the two are essentially the same person.