Dark Side of the Ring

Watch Dark Side of the Ring

  • TV-14
  • 2019
  • 4 Seasons
  • 8.7  (3,549)

Dark Side of the Ring is a compelling and informative docu-series that premiered on Viceland in the US in 2019. It is hosted by prominent wrestling personalities, Dutch Mantell, Bruce Prichard, and James E. Cornette, who provide expert commentary and analysis on the show's topics.

The show delves into some of the most notorious and controversial stories in the world of professional wrestling throughout history. The episodes are centered around tragic events and scandals that shaped the industry and often had a profound impact on the lives of those involved. From the tragic death of Owen Hart to the murder-suicide of wrestler Chris Benoit and his family, there is no shortage of real-life events that are explored in this series.

Each episode is excellently researched and presented with gripping storytelling. The show is filled with interviews with those who are connected to the events or have personal experiences and insight into the stories, from wrestlers and promoters to journalists and law enforcement officials.

The quality of the show is enhanced by the use of archival footage from the time, adding to the authenticity of the stories. The visual effects used are also impressive, with dramatic and artistic animations highlighting key moments in the narrative.

One of the greatest strengths of the show is how it balances the presentation of the facts while also delivering an emotional impact. The various stories are told with sensitivity, and the impact of the events is never downplayed. The show acknowledges the pain and tragedy experienced by those affected while also highlighting the importance of learning from these events.

What also makes the show great is how it doesn't shy away from exploring controversial topics. The tradition of racism and abuse within the wrestling industry is thoroughly investigated, with unsettling stories retold that were swept under the rug for years. The show confronts these darker aspects of wrestling history head-on, and the viewer is left to grapple with the unsettling truths presented.

That isn't to say the show doesn't have its lighter moments. There are still plenty of stories about comedic personalities and outrageous wrestling gimmicks that provide comic relief and showcase the more fun side of the industry. However, these more lighthearted episodes are presented with a sense of nostalgia, highlighting how much the industry has changed since those times.

Overall, Dark Side of the Ring is a highly recommended series for any professional wrestling fan or anyone interested in true crime and documentary filmmaking. The show has generated immense praise and opened dialogue on events that were often kept under wraps. The show goes beyond the simple retelling of tragedies and is ultimately about educating viewers on the importance of learning from past mistakes. It is a unique series that combines stunning visuals, compelling storytelling, and expert analysis to deliver a highly emotional and thought-provoking viewing experience.

Dark Side of the Ring is a series that is currently running and has 4 seasons (51 episodes). The series first aired on April 10, 2019.

Dark Side of the Ring
Filter by Source

Seasons
The World According to Marty Jannetty
10. The World According to Marty Jannetty
August 8, 2023
Shawn Michaels and Marty Jannetty's run as The Rockers was eclipsed due to Marty's excess, drug abuse, and possible murder. They were known for their raw athleticism and sex appeal.
Bash at the Beach 2000
9. Bash at the Beach 2000
August 1, 2023
At the end of the '90s, WCW's greatest battles played out backstage between scheming executives and writers, until one off-script rant against Hulk Hogan changed everything.
Bam Bam Bigelow: The Beast from the East
8. Bam Bam Bigelow: The Beast from the East
July 25, 2023
Convict; bounty hunter; flame-skulled wrestling legend; addict; the lore of Bam Bam Bigelow has only grown since his death; his family tells his improbable tale for the first time.
Abdullah the Butcher: Legacy of Blood
7. Abdullah the Butcher: Legacy of Blood
July 18, 2023
At the end of the '90s, WCW's greatest battles played out backstage between scheming executives and writers, until one off-script rant against Hulk Hogan changed everything.
The Tragic Fall of Adrian Adonis
6. The Tragic Fall of Adrian Adonis
July 11, 2023
A real life street fighter, Adrian Adonis turns flamboyant wrestling heel, but his life cuts short in an horrific accident that has been shrouded in mystery for the past thirty years.
The Junkyard Dog
5. The Junkyard Dog
June 27, 2023
One of the first Black megastars in wrestling, the Junkyard Dog's journey to the top of the business was marked by addiction and unrealized potential.
What Happened to Doink the Clown?
4. What Happened to Doink the Clown?
June 20, 2023
Matt Borne, the man behind Doink the Clown, lived a life of unhinged violence and substance abuse until his shocking death left his family questioning if it really was an accident.
Breaking the Cycle: The Graham Dynasty
3. Breaking the Cycle: The Graham Dynasty
June 13, 2023
Florida became a wrestling mecca for decades under patriarch Eddie Graham and his son Mike, but a series of shocking and unrelenting tragedies threatened to eclipse their legacy.
Shattered: The Magnum T.A. Story
2. Shattered: The Magnum T.A. Story
June 6, 2023
A. Story. Wrestling hearththrob Terry Magnum T.A. Allen was destined for worldwide stardom, but one rainy night altered his career and the future of wrestling forever.
Chris and Tammy
1. Chris and Tammy
May 30, 2023
The teenage romance of Chris Candido and Tammy "Sunny" Sytch is torn apart by addiction, infidelity, and mutual self-destruction.
Description
Where to Watch Dark Side of the Ring
Dark Side of the Ring is available for streaming on the Viceland (US) website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Dark Side of the Ring on demand at Philo, Amazon, Hulu, Vudu, Viceland, Sling, Google Play, Apple TV and Tubi TV.
  • Premiere Date
    April 10, 2019
  • IMDB Rating
    8.7  (3,549)