Unveiling Wrestling's Hidden Realities: A Deep Dive into the "Dark Side"

The Return of a Critically Acclaimed Series: Season 7 Premiere Details

The latest installment of the celebrated docuseries “Dark Side of the Ring” is scheduled to commence on July 7, exclusively on Vice TV. The season will kick off with an extended, three-part premiere event, airing two episodes consecutively at 9 p.m. ET. Following this initial broadcast, new episodes will be released weekly, ensuring a continuous journey into the intricate world of professional wrestling.

Exploring the Legacy of TNA and Jeff Jarrett: A Three-Part Special

The focal point of the seventh season's premiere will be a comprehensive three-part narrative dedicated to Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling. This special segment will meticulously examine the history and impact of the organization, with a particular emphasis on its co-founder and prominent performer, Jeff Jarrett. Viewers will gain an exclusive insight into the triumphs, struggles, and enduring influence of TNA during its formative years, viewed through Jarrett's personal journey of resilience and redemption.

Vice TV's Commitment to Unfiltered Wrestling Stories

Pete Gaffney, President of Vice TV, highlighted the series' significance as a cornerstone of their programming, resonating deeply with audiences by exposing the profound emotional and physical tolls within professional wrestling. He emphasized wrestling's status as a formidable cultural phenomenon in America, noting the series' dedication to dissecting the intricate boundary between its spectacular presentation and the harsh realities it often conceals. This commitment aims to uncover truths behind narratives that fans might have previously taken for granted.

Diverse Narratives: Featuring Legends and Unique Personalities

Beyond the TNA special, the seventh season will continue its tradition of telling compelling stories about a diverse array of wrestling figures. Upcoming episodes are slated to feature wrestling legends such as Paul Orndorff, Ray “The Big Boss Man” Traylor, and Missy Hyatt. Additionally, the series will explore lesser-known yet equally captivating stories, including the infamous clash between Necro Butcher and Samoa Joe, the inspiring journey of one-legged wrestler Zach Gowen, and the unexpected career arc of Rick Wilson, who briefly performed as The Renegade, an Ultimate Warrior homage.

Ambitious Storytelling: Deeper Exploration and Human Connection

Co-creators and executive producers Evan Husney and Jason Eisener expressed their ambition for the new season, stating that Season 7 represents their most challenging endeavor yet. They emphasized that the three-part examination of TNA Wrestling, particularly through Jeff Jarrett's experiences, provides a unique lens into the sport's enduring impact and the deeply human stories interwoven within its fabric. This approach underscores their belief in the profound and compelling nature of these narratives.

Production Excellence and Global Reach

“Dark Side of the Ring” is a flagship production of Vice Studios, developed in collaboration with Bell Media’s Crave. Evan Husney leads as co-creator, executive producer, and writer, while Jason Eisener serves as co-creator, executive producer, and director. The executive producer for Vice Studios is Guillermo Garcia, and Lee Hoffman holds the role of executive producer for Vice TV. The series enjoys global distribution through VICE Distribution, reaching a wide international audience.

Expanding the “Dark Side” Universe: A Franchise Phenomenon

The remarkable success of “Dark Side of the Ring” has led to the creation of a thriving franchise, solidifying its status as one of Vice's most significant television achievements. This expansion now includes a range of spin-off series, such as “Dark Side of Football,” “Dark Side of the 90s,” “Dark Side of the 2000s,” “Dark Side of Reality TV,” and “Dark Side of the Cage,” each delving into the untold stories and complex realities within their respective fields.