Hulk Hogan’s Biopic Plans Cut Short by His Passing

Hulk Hogan, the legendary WWE figure, passed away at 71, leaving behind unfulfilled plans for a biopic. Initially slated to star Chris Hemsworth, the project was ultimately abandoned by the time of Hogan’s death.

According to reports, Hogan suffered cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. The biopic had been in the works since February 2019, with Hemsworth set to lead alongside director Todd Phillips, who is known for his work on “The Joker.”

At the time, scriptwriting was ongoing with John Polano and Scott Silver contributing to the screenplay. Silver and Phillips had previously collaborated on the critically acclaimed film featuring Joaquin Phoenix.

The film was poised to chronicle Hogan’s journey—revealing his real name, Terry Borea, and exploring his status as a wrestling and pop culture icon. Hogan had signed off on the project’s life rights and was slated to serve as a consultant and executive producer.

However, production faced significant delays, largely stemming from pandemic-related interruptions that swept through Hollywood in 2020.

In June 2023, Hemsworth had expressed hope about the project while being interviewed, admitting uncertainty but suggesting there was a compelling story waiting to be told.

Unfortunately, in the following year, Phillips announced that the biopic would not proceed. “I loved what we were working on,” he mentioned, reflecting on the missed opportunity during a promotion for “Joker 2.”

Just months before his death, Hogan shared insights on why the biopic didn’t materialize, mentioning contractual issues that had led to complications. He still praised the script, claiming it was among the best he’d read, with Silver having spent three years gathering Hogan’s personal insights into wrestling.

There was even speculation that the film could earn accolades if produced, something Hogan seemed to ponder with a mix of curiosity and caution. However, he also conveyed apprehensions that the film might define his legacy in a way he didn’t favor.

While he noted disappointment with how business unfolded, Hogan remained open to the idea of sharing his story through alternative formats, such as documentaries or mini-series.

Ultimately, he emphasized the importance of having creative control over any depiction of his life. He expressed concern about potential legal issues should a project arise without his involvement, underscoring the complexities of rights and permissions in such endeavors.

Efforts to reach Netflix and Hemsworth for their comments on the situation have been made.