The Evolving Role of Managers in Wrestling: A Lost Art?
The world of professional wrestling is a fascinating blend of athleticism and storytelling, where characters and narratives are as crucial as the physical feats in the ring. One such character, often overlooked, is the manager. I recently had the pleasure of listening to Maria Kanellis-Bennett, a veteran of the WWE and AEW circuits, reflect on her experiences as a manager and the changing dynamics of this role.
Kanellis-Bennett, who has worn many hats in the wrestling industry, from wrestler to rebooting the Ring of Honor Women's Division, started her journey as a valet, a role that has evolved significantly over the years. She believes the decline in the prominence of managers is due to a lack of understanding of the character's nuances.
What many people don't realize is that being a manager is an art. It's not just about looking pretty and walking to the ring with a wrestler. The role, in its essence, is a complex one, requiring a unique set of skills. In the early days, as Kanellis-Bennett points out, the 'damsel in distress' archetype worked, playing into the traditional gender roles and expectations of the time. It was a character that the audience could easily understand and connect with.
However, the industry has evolved, and so has the role of the manager. Kanellis-Bennett's insight here is crucial: she sees this as a transition phase, where the business is figuring out how to adapt these characters to modern sensibilities. Personally, I find this particularly interesting because it reflects a broader trend in wrestling—the evolution of women's roles. Women are no longer just valets; they are wrestlers, managers, and promoters, challenging the traditional stereotypes.
She mentions the potential for various manager archetypes, from the strong, Chyna-type to the more traditional Jim Cornette-esque character. This is where my analysis diverges slightly. I believe the challenge is not just in the performers' abilities, but also in the audience's expectations and the industry's willingness to push boundaries. The Paul Heyman character, for instance, is a modern-day success story, but it's a fine line to tread.
In my opinion, the key to reviving the manager role lies in storytelling. Wrestling narratives have become more sophisticated, and managers can add depth and complexity to these stories. They can be the voice of reason, the catalyst for conflict, or the source of a wrestler's motivation. If done right, as Kanellis-Bennett suggests, these characters can be incredibly compelling.
Looking ahead, I foresee a potential resurgence of the manager role, but with a modern twist. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing diverse storylines and characters, the manager could become a pivotal figure, offering a unique perspective and a new layer of engagement for fans.
This discussion with Maria Kanellis-Bennett highlights the often-overlooked aspects of professional wrestling. It's a reminder that every character, no matter how small, contributes to the rich tapestry of this unique form of entertainment.
