Grappling with Representation in the WWE

This book explores the myriad ways that the WWE and Vince McMahon have shaped the opinions of their audience around issues of diversity and inclusion. The author critically analyzes what viewers are being taught by the messages that McMahon and the WWE craft about issues like race, gender, and sexuality.

Lowery A. Woodall III is associate professor of the Communication and Theatre Department at Millersville University.

Table of Contents Introduction: Coming Down the Aisle Chapter 1: 'But I Don't Want to Be a Diva': The Struggle for Gender Equality Within WWE Programming Chapter 2: "Well, Let Me Tell You Something Brother": The Glass Ceiling For African American Performers in the WWE Chapter 3: The Missing Link: Exploring the WWE's Attitude Towards Mental Health Chapter 4: Wrestling With God: Representations of Religion and Spirituality in the WWE Chapter 5: Behind the Curtain: The WWE's Problematized Relationship With LGBT Characters Conclusion: Sticking Around for the Dark Match Bibliography About the Author