Jeff Jarrett, WWE Hall of Famer and current Director of Business Development for All Elite Wrestling (AEW), spoke recently on his podcast My World with Jeff Jarrett about the newly released WWE and Netflix show, Unreal. Jarrett expressed mixed feelings regarding the series’ impact, raising concerns about its long-term benefits for the wrestling industry and its performers.
Insights on the Show’s Editing and Narrative Style
Jarrett compared the style of Unreal to shows like Succession, highlighting the mix of scripted content and candid behind-the-scenes commentary. He remarked that the production seems heavily influenced by Hollywood approaches, emphasizing the entertainment aspect over pure wrestling authenticity. Jarrett said,
“I think it’s all in the edit. You know, the show Succession? What do you call those you know when the credits roll and they have little bits, and the actors are not acting anymore. They’re giving real comments about scenes or story. And then the writer, the director, and the creator of the show? I think it’s a version of all of this. And I think in a lot of ways, it is the Hollywood version of it. My gut tells me that, ol’ Ari and the team are getting paid a boatload of money for everything they deliver to Netflix. I think Jake [Roberts]’s underlying comment when he says ‘damage’ may be a little strong. But I’m going to go, what’s the upside? What’s truly the long-term upside? Because we don’t do magic, but Conrad, there is a lot of — I just saw… scrolling, I saw the guy who played Kerry Von Erich in the movie [Iron Claw]. And he kind of went through the physicality of what we do, and he was like, ‘Holy s**t, you got to act as well as do physicality, as well as remember. You got to do this and that. I do think it’s one of the reasons that our form of entertainment has lasted so long. Because not everybody can do it. And damn sure, not everybody can do it good.”
— Jeff Jarrett, WWE Hall of Famer and AEW Executive
Concerns About Growth and Audience Impact
When asked if the series would contribute to growing the wrestling audience or product, Jarrett expressed skepticism. He reflected on how revealing the inner workings of entertainment, much like magic trick exposés, can diminish the allure. Jarrett stated,
“So it is the mindset of, ‘Does this ultimately grow the product?’ And you know, David Copperfield or any magician — you know the exposés, or ‘How did they do the magic trick,’ or whatever it may be. I think from a general point of view is, it’s going to get ratings. How much? I don’t think it’s going to be gangbusters. But the ultimate upside? I’m not sure until I see an edit, I’m convinced. Without seeing the first edit, I’m going to say the long-term upside is not there. I just don’t see it, because people love to be entertained, and kind of have that, ‘Wow, how did this all come off? And I’m into it.’ And you know — I don’t know, I could give a bunch of examples. But the spontaneous interaction that you have, I think this can do some damage to certain talent inadvertently. And I think that’s going to be kind of a fallout, that when you hear certain creative — I just think there are some things hanging out there. And you know, you go back to the generation of regional promoters. ‘Announcers don’t draw money. Refs don’t draw money. Blah, blah, blah.’ Well now in this day and age, writers don’t draw money. We can go all — the creative room done draw money. We could say all that. But Ryback’s point is, it all is one giant production? Folks, we know that. Just like Hollywood blockbusters are, and just like Monday Night Football or Sunday Night Football, it’s all giant productions. But at the end of the day, let’s watch the finished project and still have the — instead of how the cake is baked.”
— Jeff Jarrett, WWE Hall of Famer and AEW Executive
The Challenges of Wrestling as a Unique Entertainment Form
Jarrett emphasized the distinctive skill set required in professional wrestling, which combines athleticism, acting, and memory, making it more than just scripted drama. Highlighting the demanding nature of the business, he pointed to the physical and emotional complexity that performers endure to deliver the entertainment fans love. Additionally, Jarrett suggested that the exposure of behind-the-scenes elements could unintentionally harm the reputations and careers of some wrestlers.
Potential Impact and What Lies Ahead
The arrival of WWE’s Unreal has sparked debate within the wrestling community, with Jarrett voicing caution about its effects on the product’s legacy and talent morale. While it may generate curiosity and audience interest, he remains doubtful about its lasting contribution. The series might attract viewers in the short term, but its ability to strengthen wrestling’s appeal or expand its fan base is uncertain. Fans and industry insiders alike will have to await the reception and reactions once the full seasons play out.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Taylor Swift babysit Jeff Jarrett?
A. A lot of fans may remember that Swift used to babysit Jeff’s children when they lived close to each other near Nashville. Foley mentioned that Taylor Swift was in the area when Jeff’s first wife, Jill, died from cancer in 2007.
