Monday, September 17, 2007

But Do We Care That It's Fake?

A colleague and I are writing a piece on the Chris Benoit tragedy. If you don't remember, he is the professional wrestler who killed his wife, son, and then himself. We're wondering why there is so little press or comment on the story now that it has been basically ruled out that steroids played a major part in the event. Instead, they now believe that recurring brain injuries suffered in the ring contributed to Benoit's depression and possible dementia. I wonder if other wrestlers are worried that they too may eventually face the same fate. But here's my question for the week.

Why is wrestling so popular? It consistently pulls in huge television ratings and is one of the most popular cultural television events for teenage boys. This certainly is nothing new. Wrestling has been an interesting entertainment option for decades. Why do you think it is so popular and is it just of interest to dumb rednecks. Many argue it isn't. I've even been asked to guest lecture on the topic for a class at MIT in Boston. How is today's pro wrestling comparable to past sports entertainment events? Is wrestling just an extension of other events that took place long ago? And what about the female wrestler. Is she selling sex, or empowering women? Two full paragraphs. And hey, if you aren't too familiar on this topic, watch a wrestling show this week.