WCW's partnership with Walt Disney and its impact on luring Hulk Hogan back to professional wrestling. Controversies around the promotion of the Disney tapings and the challenges of producing WCW shows at Disney. The importance of supporting American farming with Moink. The format and challenges of presenting the idea to Disney. The benefits and challenges of shooting at Disney MGM Studios. Challenges faced by talent in the wrestling industry and major changes within WCW. The concept of monthly pay-per-view shows and their impact on revenue. Controversial figure's criticisms and the production quality of WCW shows. The use of videotapes to introduce wrestling talent and incite reactions from the audience. WCW history at Disneyland and comparisons to TNA Universal Studios tapings.
02:39:06
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Quick takeaways
Moving production to Disney MGM Studios helped WCW improve production values and save costs.
Choosing Disney over Universal provided unique co-branding opportunities and helped WCW stand out in the wrestling industry.
The move to Disney allowed WCW to achieve cost savings through economy of scale, despite certain limitations.
Eddie Mansfield's involvement in the decision to move to Disney MGM Studios is a misconception.
Taping shows in advance at Disney provided benefits such as high-quality production, increased morale, and cost-effectiveness.
Deep dives
The Decision to Move Production to Disney MGM Studios
WCW made the decision to move production to Disney MGM Studios in order to improve production values and save costs. The move was driven by the necessity to turn a profit as WCW had been losing money. The idea was presented to Bill Shaw, who was supportive of the change. The co-branding opportunity with Disney was a major factor in the decision, as it would enhance the credibility and appeal of WCW. Negotiations were made to secure access to the sound stages at Disney MGM Studios, and certain conditions were agreed upon, such as talent arriving by a covered bus to maintain a specific image.
Considerations for Choosing Disney over Universal
The decision to choose Disney over Universal was based on several factors, including the co-branding potential and the availability of sound stages. The association with Disney provided a unique opportunity for WCW to enhance its credibility and attract potential sponsors and partners. Universal Studios did not offer the same level of co-branding opportunity, and availability may have also been a factor in the decision. Ultimately, the decision to partner with Disney helped WCW to stand out and differentiate itself from competitors in the wrestling industry.
Cost Considerations and Limitations
Cost savings were a critical aspect of the move to Disney MGM Studios. While shooting at Disney incurred initial expenses, the economy of scale resulting from shooting multiple shows in one day over the course of several days offset those costs. Additionally, negotiating with Disney allowed WCW to find ways to minimize expenses. However, certain limitations and conditions were in place, such as talent being transported in covered buses to maintain a specific image. Accommodations for talent and production were arranged outside of Disney properties due to the high cost associated with on-property rooms.
The Role of Eddie Mansfield
Eddie Mansfield's involvement with WCW's decision to move to Disney MGM Studios is a misconception. Mansfield was not part of WCW's negotiations with Disney and his name was not mentioned during the process. Mansfield had reportedly attempted to do some wrestling at Universal, but his efforts were unrelated to WCW's decision. The move to Disney was solely driven by WCW's need to improve production values, save costs, and leverage the co-branding opportunity with Disney.
The Benefits of Taping Shows in Advance at Disney Studios
Taping shows in advance at Disney Studios provided several benefits for WCW. Firstly, it allowed the company to produce a high-quality show with special effects and visuals that rivalled the WWF's broadcasts. The production value of the shows was excellent. Secondly, the arrangement gave the talent an opportunity to bring their families along for a vacation to Disney World, which increased morale. Thirdly, the taping schedule was conducive to wrestlers having a more typical working day, allowing them to go home to their families after a day's work. And finally, the arrangement allowed WCW to tape a substantial amount of television content in a short period of time, which was cost-effective.
Navigating Challenges and Concerns
One of the challenges WCW faced during the tapings was maintaining storyline continuity. With shows being taped months in advance, changes in talent, injuries, and contract disputes could disrupt planned storylines. This inconsistency sometimes impacted the creative direction of the main show, WCW Saturday Night. Despite this challenge, WCW was able to adjust and find a rhythm. Another concern during the tapings was the exposure of the business. While the shows were visually impressive and the crowd was receptive, some critics felt that the live audience lacked genuine heat and intensity that traditional wrestling crowds often provided. However, WCW believed that the visual impact and improved production value of the shows would appeal to syndicated stations and help sell the product to potential viewers.
Mixed Reactions from Fans and Critics
Reactions to the Disney tapings were mixed. While the crowds were generally enthusiastic and the shows had a visually appealing look, the lack of genuine crowd heat and genuine reactions became a topic of discussion. Some critics felt that the audience's responses to wrestlers and matches seemed forced and artificial. It was noted that the crowd did not necessarily react based on the quality of the in-ring action, as cheers and boos were often prompted by signals given by staff members. However, WCW believed that the improved look and production value of the shows would appeal to television audiences and syndicated stations, thus supporting the decision to tape in advance at Disney Studios.
Contrasting Opinions and Resilience Against Negative Predictions
The negative predictions and criticisms from some, including Dave Meltzer, did not deter WCW's enthusiasm or confidence in the Disney tapings. WCW brass, as well as Disney, were pleased with the popularity and positive response to the tapings. Despite predictions of doom and skepticism from some wrestling insiders, WCW proceeded with the tapings, believing in the benefits and potential of the arrangement. WCW focused on producing a visually impressive product that would appeal to syndicated stations and win over potential viewers. The company remained steadfast in its commitment to its own vision, despite the negative narrative surrounding the tapings.
The Impact of Disney on WCW: Boosting Credibility and Morale
The podcast episode discusses how WCW's partnership with Disney, particularly the tapings at Disney-MGM Studios, had a significant impact on the company's credibility and morale. The tapings provided better production values, enhanced perception among advertisers and sponsors, and allowed for creative use of various backdrops in the park. It also improved the morale of the wrestlers, their families, and the overall atmosphere of the company. Additionally, the episode highlights the significance of Disney's support during complex production challenges, such as the destruction of the cityscape set due to a hurricane.
The Strategic Importance of the WCW-Disney Relationship
The podcast episode explores the strategic importance of the WCW-Disney relationship. Despite initial skepticism and reluctance from Disney executives, WCW's presence at Disney-MGM Studios helped to change perceptions and establish a mutually beneficial partnership. The collaboration provided WCW with access to unique production locations within the park, reinforcing the quality and appeal of their product. It also allowed for cross-promotion opportunities and gave WCW a competitive edge in generating revenue and attracting a larger audience. The episode highlights the positive impact of the partnership on various aspects of WCW's operations, including production values, marketing, and talent morale.
On this episode of 83 Weeks, Eric and Conrad take a deep dive into WCW's partnership with Walt Disney. Eric shares details on how the deal came about and the impact it had on luring Hulk Hogan back into professional wrestling. The discussion also gets a little heated when Conrad confronts Eric about the promotion of the Disney tapings and how WCW fans had no clue it was happening.
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