Grappling with Representation in the WWE: Exploring Issues of Diversity and Inclusion in World Wrestling Entertainment

Lowery A. Woodall III explores the ways that diverse populations are portrayed,stereotyped,and sometimes villainized in the WWE's programming, arguing that the WWE and McMahon have created calculated and carefully curated representations of diversity that are viewed by millions of fans worldwide.

Format: Hardback
Length: 290 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

In his captivating book, Lowery A. Woodall III delves into the intricate ways in which diverse populations are portrayed, stereotyped, and occasionally villainized within the vibrant and dramatic realm of the WWE. Spanning the modern history of the WWE under the guidance of Vincent K. McMahon, each chapter uncovers the surprisingly complex and multifaceted representation of marginalized communities. Through weekly shows like Raw and SmackDown, pay-per-view extravaganzas like WrestleMania, and a vast treasure trove of wrestling-related content on their streaming platform, Woodall compellingly argues that the WWE and McMahon have meticulously crafted representations of diversity that captivate millions of fans worldwide.

However, the impact of these representations on the men, women, and children who consume WWE content is a subject that demands our attention. How do the on-screen portrayals of wrestlers and performers shape their lives and careers? This book embarks on a profound exploration of these questions, unveiling the potential consequences when representations fall short of accuracy or become problematic. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars in the fields of professional wrestling studies, media studies, and communication studies, offering insightful perspectives and shedding light on the intricate dynamics of representation in the world of professional wrestling.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793608772