One big thing: Mercedes Mone says WWE made it difficult for her to film “The Mandalorian”
Former WWE star Mercedes Mone, now with AEW, recently opened up about the challenges she faced while trying to balance her wrestling career with her role in “The Mandalorian.”
• Mone described the process of getting time off to film as “pulling teeth”
• She claims WWE intentionally scheduled her for house shows during filming dates
• The wrestler praised AEW’s more flexible schedule, allowing her to pursue acting opportunities
Why it matters
Mone’s revelation highlights the ongoing tension between wrestlers’ desire for creative freedom and WWE’s tight control over their schedules and outside projects.
By the numbers
• Mone appeared in 2 episodes of “The Mandalorian” Season 2
• She returned for 2 more episodes in Season 3, plus the finale
What they’re saying
I love WWE, but they tried so hard to not make me do ‘The Mandalorian,'” Mone told Hot 97. These new doors of opportunity here at AEW, I have all the time in the world to go do acting and more.
The big picture
Mone’s experience underscores the growing appeal of AEW to wrestlers seeking more control over their careers and outside pursuits. It also reflects the increasing crossover between professional wrestling and mainstream entertainment.
Looking back
Mone credits her 2015 NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn match with Bayley as a turning point in her career, opening doors to future opportunities in film and acting.
What’s next?
With her newfound freedom in AEW, fans can likely expect to see more of Mone in both the wrestling ring and on screen in various acting roles.
What do you think about WWE’s apparent resistance to Mone’s acting career? Do you believe AEW’s more flexible approach will attract more top talent? Share your thoughts in the comments below!