The Fading Art of the Wrestling Manager: More Than Just a Pretty Face
In the electrifying world of professional wrestling, where larger-than-life characters clash in a symphony of athleticism and drama, the role of the manager often gets overlooked. Maria Kanellis-Bennett, a veteran of both WWE and AEW, recently shed some light on why these crucial figures seem to be a rarer sight in today's wrestling landscape. Personally, I think the decline in prominent managerial roles is a complex issue, stemming not just from a lack of talent, but from a fundamental shift in how wrestling storytelling is approached.
From Valet to Visionary: The Evolution of the Manager
When Maria first entered the wrestling scene back in 2004, her role as a valet was primarily about presentation. "I walked out there, I had a pair of legs, I could move my legs down there and then I smiled pretty and then I moved my legs on back," she explained. This "damsel in distress" persona was a staple, designed to draw attention to the wrestler she accompanied. What makes this particularly fascinating is how this initial, almost passive, role laid the groundwork for something much more substantial. It was a simpler time, perhaps, where the manager's job was to amplify the wrestler's presence without necessarily overshadowing them.
However, as Maria rightly points out, wrestling has evolved. Women, in particular, have broken free from these archetypes, demonstrating incredible in-ring prowess and complex character work. This transition phase, where the very definition of a valet or manager was being redefined, is what I find so interesting. It wasn't just about the women changing; it was about the business itself catching up to their capabilities. The idea that a character from 2004 could still be relevant today, if executed properly, speaks volumes about the enduring appeal of well-crafted personas.
The Unseen Skills of a Master Manipulator
Maria's assertion that "a lot of people don't know how to play the character" really hits home for me. Being a successful manager isn't just about looking good or shouting catchphrases; it requires a unique blend of acting, charisma, and strategic thinking. You have to be able to embody a persona that complements, and often elevates, the wrestler you're managing. This means understanding the narrative, knowing when to interject, when to be silent, and how to use your presence to tell a story without throwing a single punch. What many people don't realize is the sheer mental effort involved in consistently playing such a role, night after night.
From my perspective, the archetypes Maria mentions – the "strong, Chyna-type manager" or a more vocal, Jim Cornette-esque figure – are still incredibly viable. Paul Heyman's continued success is a testament to this. He's a masterclass in how to be an integral part of the show, a driving force behind the narrative, without being the one in the ring. What this really suggests is that the demand for compelling managers is still there; it's the supply of individuals who can masterfully inhabit these roles that seems to be dwindling. It's a difficult character to do, as Maria says, and perhaps the industry hasn't prioritized developing that specific skill set as much as it once did.
The Broader Implications for Wrestling Storytelling
If you take a step back and think about it, the decline of the manager also impacts the depth of wrestling narratives. Managers often serve as the mouthpiece for a silent or less articulate wrestler, providing the crucial exposition and motivation that drives feuds. They can be the catalyst for heel turns, the voice of reason, or the embodiment of pure evil. Without them, some storylines can feel a bit one-dimensional, lacking that extra layer of psychological manipulation or strategic brilliance that a good manager brings to the table. One thing that immediately stands out is how much richer wrestling can be when you have these dynamic duos, where the manager and wrestler are equally vital to the spectacle.
This raises a deeper question: are we missing out on a crucial element of wrestling entertainment by not having more compelling managers? While the focus has rightly shifted to the athleticism and in-ring talent of the wrestlers, I believe there's still a significant appetite for the nuanced performance of a great manager. It's a role that requires a different kind of artistry, one that can be just as captivating as any high-flying maneuver. The challenge, as Maria implies, is finding and nurturing those who possess the specific talents to excel in this often-underappreciated art form. Perhaps it's time for wrestling promotions to reinvest in developing managers who can truly command attention and enhance the overall storytelling experience. What are your thoughts on the role of managers in wrestling today? I'd love to hear them!
