Following the premiere of the new “WWE: Unreal” docuseries on Netflix, a new report from Fightful Select has shed light on the backstage reaction to the show and provided details on how the behind-the-scenes series was produced.
An ‘Honest Portrayal’ And Legitimate Surprises
According to the report, some WWE producers were initially concerned about the show’s authenticity but were ultimately “very pleased” with how it turned out. The series maintained a level of secrecy around major storylines, as the production crew reportedly did not know about John Cena’s heel turn in advance, similar to how CM Punk’s return at Survivor Series was kept under wraps. One talent praised the show’s handling of the IShowSpeed Royal Rumble appearance as an “honest portrayal.”
What Was Real And What Was ‘Set Up’?
The report also clarified what was real versus what may have been influenced by the cameras. One scene at the Royal Rumble where the women’s locker room emptied out to cheer for Charlotte Flair’s victory was a produced moment, though the talent wasn’t told it was specifically for the Netflix show. Conversely, while some members of the women’s roster speculated that the infamous off-script promo between Charlotte Flair and Tiffany Stratton was manufactured for the docuseries, the report states that no one involved with the segment has ever claimed that was the case.
The docuseries, which covers the creative process from the Royal Rumble through WrestleMania 41, has generated significant buzz for WWE. The company will look to capitalize on that interest this weekend with its first-ever two-night SummerSlam premium live event from MetLife Stadium, which features a card stacked with major championship matches.
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