Dwayne Johnson to Adapt WWE Paige Biopic into Stage Musical
Dwayne Johnson is making waves once again as he delves back into the world of Paige, but this time with a twist – instead of the wrestling ring, the focus shifts to the stage.
The hit 2019 biopic “Fighting With My Family” is taking on a new life as a stage musical. This groundbreaking move is set to bring the world of wrestling storytelling into a whole new dimension, captivating audiences in a fresh way.
Collaborating with Tilted Musicals and Stephen Merchant, along with his own Seven Bucks Productions, Johnson is embarking on a new chapter in this dynamic story that beautifully weaves together elements of grit, family, and heart-pounding near misses.
The core of the narrative revolves around Paige, or Saraya Bevis, and her journey to the WWE. Portrayed by the talented Florence Pugh, the film introduced audiences to the life of the WWE Tag Team Champion. Now, this compelling story is being reimagined with book and lyrics by Jon Brittain, a distinguished Olivier Award winner, and a dynamic new soundtrack from Miranda Cooper and Nick Coler.
Merchant, who both penned and directed the original film, expressed the natural progression toward a musical adaptation. He envisioned each wrestling match as a distinct dance number, building up to an electrifying grand finale that promises to captivate hearts and souls.
In agreement with Merchant, Johnson highlighted the perfect fit between wrestling and live theatre. “Fighting With My Family” taps into profound personal emotions, and wrestling inherently is about storytelling and forging connections with a live audience, making it an ideal candidate for the stage.
This ambitious project is the flagship venture of Tilted Musicals, with the support of Kevin Misher and Birmingham Hippodrome. While still in the early stages of development, plans are already underway for workshops leading up to a potential premiere in 2027.
The announcement of this exciting adaptation coincides with Paige’s triumphant return to the ring at WrestleMania 42, adding yet another layer to her captivating story, now destined to unfold under the dazzling lights of the stage.
As WWE continues to expand its horizons beyond the boundaries of the ring, this adaptation serves as a testament to the company’s vision to deliver not only memorable matches but also unforgettable acts on various stages, captivating audiences in new and innovative ways.