Lawyers hope Netflix’s ‘Mr. McMahon’ will highlight WWE CEO’s alleged misconduct
Attorneys representing a woman suing former WWE CEO Vince McMahon for allegations of abuse, sexual assault, and human trafficking expressed their hope that the forthcoming Netflix documentary on McMahon will accurately depict his alleged harmful and manipulative behavior.
In January, Janel Grant, a former employee of WWE, initiated legal action in Connecticut, describing her experiences at WWE’s headquarters. Grant claims that McMahon compelled her to sign a non-disclosure agreement regarding their relationship, in exchange for $3 million, but she did not receive the full amount and seeks to nullify the agreement through her lawsuit. She has also filed claims against WWE’s former head of talent relations, John Laurinaitis.
Next week, Netflix is set to debut the docuseries “Mr. McMahon” on September 25, which aims to explore McMahon’s controversial tenure as the leader of the world’s largest wrestling organization. The series will feature interviews with McMahon and notable wrestling figures, such as Dwyane “The Rock” Johnson, Hulk Hogan, and Paul “Triple H” Levesque, with indications that it was filmed around the same time as Grant’s lawsuit announcement.
Ann Callis, one of Grant’s attorneys, expressed her hope during a press conference on Thursday that the docuseries will bring attention to her client’s story and portray it with integrity.
Callis stated, “Due to the extreme cruelty, degradation, exploitation, and violence she endured almost daily for over two years, (Grant) now experiences severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, suicidal thoughts, and the inability to leave her home for extended periods.” She added, “We hope it highlights McMahon’s appalling actions, often occurring on WWE property, and illustrates the true nature of his abusive and exploitative conduct.”
McMahon stepped down as executive chairman and board member of TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of WWE, a day after the lawsuit was filed, although he continues to assert his innocence.
Previously, McMahon stated, “I plan to defend myself rigorously against these unfounded claims and look forward to clearing my name,” in a communication to YSL News Sports.
Callis noted that Grant did not participate in “Mr. McMahon,” but did not disclose whether she was invited to join. She emphasized that Grant “deserves the chance to share her full narrative, not be a part of another’s story.”
“Grant will have her day in court, and McMahon will face accountability,” Callis added. “She seeks to expedite all legal proceedings and has the right to convey her own story when the time is right.”
While Grant aims to hasten the lawsuit process, her case is currently on hold awaiting the results of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. Her lawyers have not received any updates regarding the federal inquiry but have expressed their desire for it to move swiftly so that her lawsuit can proceed.
Recently, Grant also submitted a request to secure her medical records from Dr. Carlon Colker. Callis stated that McMahon arranged for Grant’s appointments with Colker, and they are asking for all communications between the two. Colker and Peak Wellness have lodged an official objection to this request, claiming it is part of Grant’s “smear campaign” against WWE.
When queried about any communication Grant has had with WWE since the lawsuit was filed, Callis mentioned that there was some initial “very brief” contact from WWE, but nothing further since then.
“Janel Grant is a human being. As I’ve stated before, she merits justice,” Callis remarked. “She’s both a victim and a survivor; she is not merely a storyline for WWE.”