Breaking: Liv Morgan Jumps Into Takashi Miike’s Bad Lieutenant: Tokyo
Liv Morgan, a staple of WWE television, stepped away from the ring in May 2025 to shoot the third installment of Bad Lieutenant in Tokyo, marking a major foray into feature filmmaking.
The project reunites Morgan with horror director Takashi Miike, whose work the actress described as among the most unsettling she has encountered. She recalled being drawn to the script despite initial reservations and noted that WWE supported her decision to take the plunge.
Filming in Japan lasted 17 days, with Morgan portraying a character far from anything she has played before. She said the experience reminded her of WWE in terms of preparation, yet the process in film required multiple takes and careful handling of scenes that frequently enough unfold in a single cut. In interviews, she emphasized Miike’s singular vision and the intensity of the project, saying she was glad to push herself in a new direction.
The cast also includes Lily James and Shun Oguri, and Neon is attached as the distributor. A concrete premiere date has not been announced, but a release window around October 2026 has been referenced in conversations tied to the film.
Simultaneously occurring, Morgan returned to WWE in November after recovering from a dislocated shoulder suffered in June 2025. She resurfaced on January 5, 2026, during a Monday Night Raw taping in Brooklyn, New York, delivering a victory over Lyra Valkyria at the barclays Center in a match part of the “RAW is Stranger Things” anniversary special. Morgan won with her Oblivion finisher.
Her return marks a notable rebound for a performer who has balanced wrestling with acting work, underscoring the growing crossovers between sports entertainment and cinema.
Key Facts At A Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Film | Bad Lieutenant: Tokyo |
| Director | Takashi Miike |
| Co‑stars | Lily James; Shun Oguri |
| Distributor | Neon |
| Filming in Japan | 17 days |
| release window discussed | October 2026 (tentative) |
| WWE status during filming | On hiatus from May 2025; returned late 2025/early 2026 |
| In‑ring return match | January 5, 2026; Brooklyn, NY; Defeated Lyra Valkyria; Obblivion finisher |
evergreen insights
The move highlights a broader trend of athletes crossing between pro wrestling and film. For Morgan, the shift demanded adaptability: a single-take mindset on set contrasts with live, in‑ring performance, yet the discipline—preparation, timing, and physical control—translates across both worlds. Fans can expect a performer who continues to explore new venues for expression while maintaining a high-profile wrestling presence. The collaboration between a legendary director, a rising star, and a major distributor also signals opportunities for other wrestlers to pursue cinematic roles without sacrificing their in‑ring careers.
as more performers test the boundaries of wrestling and cinema, audiences gain a richer view of what athletes can contribute beyond the ring. Morgan’s experience could pave the way for future crossovers, highlighting the value of versatility in contemporary entertainment careers.
Engage With The Story
What do you think about pro wrestlers expanding into mainstream cinema? Which other athletes woudl you like to see take on major film roles?
Would you like to see more crossovers that blend spectacle with storytelling in projects like this?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.
