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The Unspoken Rule in Entertainment: Why Politics and Profits Are Increasingly at Odds
Nearly 60% of Americans say political discussions are stressful and exhausting, according to a recent Pew Research Center study. This growing fatigue isn’t confined to dinner table debates; it’s rapidly reshaping the entertainment landscape, and a recent revelation from former WWE star CJ Perry (Lana) offers a fascinating glimpse behind the curtain. Perry recounted a direct conversation with Donald Trump, then newly in office, where the advice was blunt: “No more politics.” It’s a directive that speaks to a broader, and accelerating, trend – the deliberate depoliticization of entertainment.
From Rusev to Reality: The Shifting Sands of WWE Storylines
Perry’s story, shared on the TMZ’s Inside The Ring podcast, centers around her and her husband Miro (formerly Rusev)’s time in WWE. During the lead-up to and early years of the Trump presidency, the duo played characters leaning heavily into anti-American sentiment, often with overt references to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump’s intervention signaled a clear desire to avoid alienating portions of the WWE audience. This wasn’t simply about avoiding controversy; it was a calculated business decision. The risk of losing viewers – and lucrative sponsorships – outweighed the potential gains from politically charged storylines.
The Polarization Problem: Why Entertainment is Taking a Step Back
The core issue isn’t necessarily a fear of taking a stance, but a recognition of the deeply fractured nature of the modern audience. **Political polarization** has reached a point where any perceived alignment with a particular ideology can trigger immediate backlash. Entertainment, historically a unifying force, is now often seen as a battleground. This is particularly true in scripted entertainment like wrestling, where characters are often deliberately provocative. The goal is to generate engagement, but increasingly, that engagement comes with a hefty dose of negativity and division.
This trend extends far beyond WWE. Look at the recent backlash against certain casting choices in superhero films or the controversies surrounding politically themed episodes of popular television shows. While some creators are doubling down on social commentary, many are quietly recalibrating, prioritizing broad appeal over potentially divisive narratives. The financial implications are significant. A Nielsen report from 2023 showed a direct correlation between politically charged content and decreased viewership among specific demographic groups.
Beyond Wrestling: The Broader Depoliticization of Pop Culture
The “no politics” directive isn’t unique to wrestling. The entertainment industry, from music to film to streaming services, is facing increasing pressure to remain neutral. This isn’t necessarily about censorship; it’s about risk management. Companies are realizing that alienating even a small percentage of their audience can have a substantial impact on their bottom line.
Consider the rise of “comfort TV” – shows designed to be escapist and non-threatening. The popularity of baking competitions, home renovation shows, and lighthearted comedies demonstrates a clear demand for entertainment that doesn’t require emotional investment in complex political issues. This isn’t to say that politically relevant art will disappear, but its prominence may diminish as audiences seek refuge from the constant barrage of news and social media debates.
The Return of the Legend & The Future of Character Work
Interestingly, Perry’s interview also touched on her current “Legends deal” with WWE and Miro’s return. This signals a shift towards celebrating established stars and nostalgia, a trend often seen during times of societal uncertainty. Focusing on familiar faces and proven formulas can be a safer bet than pushing boundaries with untested political narratives. The emphasis is shifting back to athletic prowess and compelling character work, rather than relying on controversial storylines to generate heat.
The future of entertainment may well involve a more subtle approach to social commentary. Instead of explicitly taking sides, creators may opt for allegorical storytelling or focus on universal themes that resonate with a wider audience. The key will be to entertain without inflaming, to engage without dividing.
As the lines between entertainment and activism continue to blur, the industry will face a constant balancing act. But one thing is clear: the era of overtly political entertainment may be waning, replaced by a more cautious and commercially driven approach. What will this mean for the future of storytelling? Only time will tell, but the message from Donald Trump to CJ Perry and Miro may prove to be a prescient warning for the entire industry.
What are your predictions for the role of politics in entertainment over the next five years? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
