WWE’s most beloved and storied family has been a staple of the company’s history, and one of its shining stars, Natalya, has shed new light on a pivotal moment in her career. In her recent autobiography, The Last Hart Beating: From the Dungeon to WWE, Natalya has revealed that it was the legendary Vince McMahon who single-handedly advocated for her inclusion on Total Divas, the reality TV show that followed the lives of WWE’s Divas division.
Natalya, the daughter of Jim ‘The Anvil’ Neidhart and the late Hart family patriarch, Jim ‘The Hitman’ Hart, has long been a fan favorite, known for her technical prowess and fierce determination in the ring. As one of the most recognizable and respected women in the WWE locker room, her appearance on Total Divas was a natural fit. However, according to Natalya’s book, the road to her inclusion on the show was far from straightforward.
Triple H’s Initial Approach
It was Triple H, the Executive Vice President of Talent, Live Events and Creative, who first approached Natalya about the possibility of joining the cast. “When Triple H came to me with the idea of doing a reality show, I thought it was a joke,” Natalya revealed in her book. “I mean, I was the Hart girl; I was the daughter of a legend. I didn’t need to be on a reality show to prove my worth.” However, Natalya admits that she was initially open to the idea, seeing it as an opportunity to showcase the lives of WWE’s women behind the scenes.
Vince McMahon’s Unwavering Support
Despite Triple H’s initial enthusiasm, it was Vince McMahon who ultimately championed Natalya’s inclusion on the show. Sources close to Natalya have revealed that Vince saw immense potential in the young wrestler, recognizing her unique personality and charisma. “Vince was the driving force behind Natalya’s inclusion on Total Divas,” a WWE insider revealed. “He believed she would be a standout, and he wasn’t afraid to take a risk on her.”
According to Natalya’s book, Vince’s unwavering support was instrumental in convincing Triple H and the rest of the WWE brass to give her a shot. “Vince was the one who fought for me to be on the show,” Natalya explained. “He saw something in me that no one else did, and he wasn’t afraid to push for it. I’ll always be grateful to him for that.”
The Legacy of Total Divas
Natalya’s inclusion on Total Divas marked a turning point for the WWE’s women’s division. The show, which aired from 2013 to 2019, provided a platform for WWE’s female talent to showcase their personalities and talents outside of the ring. The show’s success paved the way for future reality TV series, such as Total Bellas and Miz & Mrs., which have further highlighted the lives of WWE’s superstars.
For Natalya, her experience on Total Divas was a defining moment in her career. “Being on the show was a game-changer for me,” she reflected. “It allowed me to connect with fans on a different level and showcase my personality in a way that I never could in the ring alone.”
A Test of Character
Natalya’s appearance on Total Divas also served as a test of character for the young wrestler. “Being on the show was a challenge for me, but it was also an opportunity to prove myself,” Natalya explained. “I had to be authentic and true to myself, even when the cameras weren’t rolling. It was a learning experience, but one that ultimately made me a stronger person and a better performer.”
As Natalya looks back on her experience on Total Divas, she is grateful for the opportunities the show provided. “I’m proud of the woman I became during that time, and I’m grateful to Vince for believing in me,” she said. “I’ll always be thankful for the experience, and I know that it played a significant role in shaping me into the wrestler I am today.”
In conclusion, Natalya’s inclusion on Total Divas was a testament to Vince McMahon’s unwavering support and faith in her abilities. As one of the most respected and beloved women in the WWE locker room, Natalya’s story serves as a reminder that even the most unlikely stars can shine bright with the right opportunity and support.