Chris Jericho, currently between wrestling contracts and expected to return to WWE after his AEW deal ends, shared his thoughts on the intersection of wrestling and theatre during a recent Radio X appearance. While juggling various projects, Jericho appeared on The Kickabout with Johnny Vaughan, where the two explored the theatrical nature of professional wrestling, linking it to the work of Shakespeare.
Wrestling as a Modern-Day Morality Play
On the show, Vaughan reflected on pro wrestling’s resemblance to Shakespearean theatre, recalling several WWE personalities who had appeared on his program, including Stephanie McMahon. Vaughan suggested that wrestling is essentially what theatre once was, evoking Shakespeare’s style and storytelling.
Jericho agreed, describing wrestling as “a modern-day morality play.” This comparison frames wrestling as more than physical sport; it is a narrative experience that unfolds like classic theatrical drama.
Reimagining Macbeth Through Pro Wrestling Performance
Vaughan proposed a creative idea: staging Shakespeare’s Macbeth entirely with WWE wrestlers, concluding with a battle royale. He referenced the Wyatt Family from wrestling lore to portray the three witches, capturing their eerie presence with theatrical flair.
Jericho confirmed Vaughan’s reference to the Wyatt Family, highlighting their fit for the witches’ roles. The concept was enthusiastically embraced on the show, with audience and hosts alike agreeing it would bring a fresh and dramatic twist to Shakespeare’s work.
Vaughan further imagined casting Triple H and The Heartbreak Kid as Banquo and Macbeth, respectively, combining wrestling’s intense rivalries with Shakespeare’s layered characters. He expressed that such a production could energize Shakespeare in a way that many traditional performances might not.
Chris Jericho’s Vision: Shakespeare Behind Wrestling Scripts
Jericho reflected on this idea, reiterating a belief he has voiced before: if Shakespeare were alive today, he would likely be crafting storylines for wrestling shows. The mixture of morality, conflict, and spectacle in professional wrestling fits Shakespeare’s dramatic style perfectly.
Given Shakespeare’s revered status as a master playwright, Jericho’s view suggests that professional wrestling’s storytelling could benefit greatly from such skilled narrative craftsmanship, enhancing the emotional and theatrical depth of the sport.
Listening Options for UK Audiences
Fans interested in hearing the full discussion can catch Radio X with Johnny Vaughan on weekdays from 16:00 to 19:00, and Saturdays from 11:00 to 13:00, available across the UK and via the Global Player app.
