Netflix has premiered its new six-part docuseries titled “Mr. McMahon,” which delves into the life of former WWE CEO Vince McMahon while also exploring the broader history of modern professional wrestling as a reflection of American culture. Filmmaker Chris Smith began interviewing McMahon in 2021, but the project faced interruptions in 2022 due to media coverage of investigations concerning McMahon’s alleged hush-money payments linked to sexual misconduct claims. While these interruptions had mixed effects on the documentary, Smith captured an unfiltered McMahon, who appears relatively unfazed by the controversies surrounding WWE.
This docuseries marks the first collaborative biography of McMahon with WWE, even though neither McMahon nor WWE exercised editorial control over its content. Critics note that the series does not fully explore the negative ramifications of McMahon’s actions, yet it manages to provide a relatively honest portrayal due to its unique production context. The filmmakers did not aim to create an exposé but rather to offer a comprehensive depiction of McMahon as a pivotal figure in wrestling history.
Despite feedback that the series may lack significant appeal for wrestling enthusiasts, episode five stands out as it highlights the McMahon family’s narratives. Vince’s wife and children were notably more forthcoming about their experiences. Overall, the series offers a critical examination of McMahon’s legacy and raises various issues, though it does not dwell on every topic in detail.
While “Mr. McMahon” may not achieve perfection due to its production challenges, it stands out as a significant critique of McMahon that diverges from a mere promotional narrative. It is clear that the docuseries does not allow McMahon to dominate the conversation, making it a noteworthy contribution to the understanding of his complex legacy. Some parts of the series may feel disjointed due to the obstacles encountered during its making.