In a candid revelation, former WWE creative team writer Brian Gewirtz recently voiced his dissatisfaction with WWE's transition to PG content.
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In a candid revelation, former WWE creative team writer Brian Gewirtz recently voiced his dissatisfaction with WWE’s transition to PG content, recounting a spirited disagreement he had with Vince McMahon himself. This shift in focus, initiated in July 2008, aimed to appeal more to younger audiences.
Gewirtz, who served as a creative force within WWE during a pivotal period, shared insights into his conversation with Vince McMahon regarding the transition. He highlighted the dissonance between the proclaimed “PG era” and the actual nature of content being produced. Gewirtz recalled, “It said PG era, but really it was the G era. I remember getting into an argument with him [Vince McMahon] … I had someone write, ‘I don’t even give a damn,’ and he says, ‘God, you can’t say damn, we’re PG,’ and I’m like, ‘Yes, that’s my argument, too. We are PG, that’s why it’s not something else.’”
Gewirtz’s argument stemmed from the incongruities he perceived within the newly established PG framework. He pointed to a specific instance that highlighted the inconsistency. “But we literally have a character who only says ‘Damn!’ and his t-shirt that says ‘Damn!’ on the exact same show. He’s [McMahon] like, ‘Oh that’s different, that’s his thing.’” Gewirtz’s observation shed light on the intricacies of adhering to a new content standard while maintaining characters with established catchphrases.
WWE’s decision to transition to PG content marked a strategic move aimed at attracting a younger demographic. However, as Gewirtz’s comments reveal, implementing such a shift wasn’t without its challenges. The nuanced balance between established characters and the new content guidelines led to discussions and debates within the creative team, and even disagreements with the company’s top decision-maker.
Gewirtz’s insights offer a glimpse into the complexities of redefining content boundaries within a well-established entertainment entity. The conversation between Gewirtz and McMahon showcases the dynamic nature of creative decision-making, especially during a period of significant transformation. As WWE continues to evolve and adapt, the tension between tradition and innovation remains a key factor in shaping its narrative.
In the ever-evolving landscape of sports entertainment, discussions like these remind us that the stories playing out behind the scenes can be just as riveting as those in the ring. The tension between artistic expression and commercial appeal, as exemplified by Gewirtz’s recollections, serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of crafting compelling content for a diverse audience.
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