The world of professional wrestling is constantly evolving, and nowhere is this more evident than in the creative process behind WWE storylines. In a recent interview, WWE veteran Bruce Prichard shed light on the company’s current approach to writing storylines, revealing a significant departure from the methods employed in the past.
A More Collaborative Environment
According to Prichard, the WWE creative team now operates in a more collaborative and fluid environment. Gone are the days of a single, all-powerful writer dictating the direction of a storyline. Instead, a diverse group of writers, producers, and talent contribute to the development of each narrative arc.
“This is a very different machine than it used to be,” Prichard said. “We’re no longer relying solely on one or two writers to come up with an entire storyline. We’ve got a team of talented individuals who bring their unique perspectives and ideas to the table. It’s a more organic process, and it’s allowing us to create more complex and engaging storylines.”
This shift towards a more collaborative approach has been a deliberate effort by WWE to revitalize their creative process. By incorporating a wider range of voices and ideas, the company aims to stay ahead of the curve and provide fans with a more dynamic viewing experience.
The Role of Talent in Storyline Development
One of the most significant changes within WWE’s creative process is the increased involvement of talent in storyline development. Superstars such as Roman Reigns, Sasha Banks, and Cody Rhodes are now being consulted on their character arcs and the direction of their storylines.
Sources close to Cody Rhodes revealed that the American Nightmare has become increasingly involved in the creative process, often providing input on his own character development and the direction of major storylines. This newfound level of involvement has not only given Rhodes a sense of ownership over his character but has also allowed him to tap into his creative potential as a performer.
“Cody’s always been a guy who’s passionate about his craft,” said a WWE insider. “He’s been a huge asset to the creative team, providing valuable insights and ideas that have helped shape some of our biggest storylines. It’s been inspiring to see him grow as a performer and a creative force within the company.”
The Rise of the “Writer-Talent” Hybrid
WWE has also seen a growing trend of writers and talent blurring the lines between their respective roles. Many performers are now taking on writing duties, either on a part-time or full-time basis, allowing them to contribute to the creative process while also honing their skills as writers.
Roman Reigns, for example, has been known to contribute to the development of his own character arcs and storyline direction. This hybrid approach has not only provided Reigns with a deeper understanding of the creative process but has also given him a unique perspective on the world of professional wrestling.
The Impact on Storyline Quality
The changes within WWE’s creative process have had a significant impact on the quality of storylines. With a more collaborative environment and increased involvement from talent, the company has been able to produce more complex and engaging narratives.
Fans have responded positively to the shift in creative direction, with many praising the company for taking a more organic and dynamic approach to storytelling. The rise of the “writer-talent” hybrid has also led to a new wave of innovative and outside-the-box thinking, as performers are able to bring their unique perspectives and ideas to the table.
The Challenges of a Changing Creative Landscape
While the changes within WWE’s creative process have been largely positive, there are still challenges to be faced. The increased involvement of talent can sometimes lead to a lack of cohesion and direction, as multiple voices and ideas come together to shape a storyline.
Prichard acknowledged these challenges, stating that the company is still working to refine their creative process and find the perfect balance between collaboration and cohesion.
“It’s a delicate balance, but we’re committed to getting it right,” Prichard said. “We’re constantly evaluating and adjusting our approach, making sure that we’re providing the best possible experience for our fans. It’s a work in progress, but we’re excited about the direction we’re heading in.”
Conclusion
WWE’s shift towards a more collaborative and fluid creative environment is a significant departure from the methods employed in the past. The increased involvement of talent and the rise of the “writer-talent” hybrid have led to a new era of innovative and engaging storylines. While challenges remain, the company is committed to refining their creative process and providing fans with a dynamic viewing experience.
As the world of professional wrestling continues to evolve, one thing is clear: WWE’s approach to storyline development is changing, and for the better. With a more collaborative environment and a focus on innovation, the company is poised to take the world of professional wrestling to new heights.