The chilling and heartbreaking episode of Dark Side of the Ring Season 5 titled “Owen Hart” left a lasting impact on wrestling fans worldwide. The episode, which aired on June 21, 2023, delved into the tragic accident that took the life of beloved wrestler Owen Hart during a WWF pay-per-view event, Over the Edge, in 1999. As a lifelong wrestling fan, the episode brought back painful memories, reminding us of the danger and vulnerability that pro wrestlers face in the ring.
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The episode didn’t just recount the accident, it showcased the complex and at times contentious relationship Owen Hart had with the WWF prior to his tragic death. It shed light on the power dynamics within the company, the pressure wrestlers felt to perform even with safety concerns, and the ripple effects of the accident on those closest to Owen. This episode is a must-watch for any wrestling fan, and its impact resonated far beyond the world of professional wrestling.
The Owen Hart Incident
The episode recounted the fateful night of May 23, 1999, where Owen was scheduled to defend his WWF European Championship against “The Godfather” at the Over the Edge pay-per-view event. His entrance into the arena was a highlight of the show, as he had requested that he be lowered from the ceiling into the ring. Sadly, the rig malfunctioned during the descent, causing Owen to fall 78 feet to the ring mat in front of a live audience.
The episode, through interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues, highlighted the gravity of the situation. His wife, Martha Hart, expressed her grief and frustration over the lack of accountability from the WWF. The episode brought to light the flawed safety protocols, which had been brushed aside in favor of spectacle. The episode not only revealed the tragedy of Owen’s death, but also the inadequate response and lack of respect shown by the WWF organization in the aftermath.
Exploring the Complex Relationship Between Owen and the WWF
The episode also explored the complex relationship that Owen Hart had with the WWF. It revealed that he was in the midst of a tumultuous period in his wrestling career. He felt that he was not being treated with the same respect and recognition given to his brother, Bret Hart. This strained relationship undoubtedly contributed to his desire for more autonomy and control over his own presentation.
The episode focused on Owen’s fight for greater creative control. He was a wrestling innovator and a talented performer who wanted to be recognized for his own merits. However, the WWF hierarchy often pushed him into storylines that didn’t fit his personality and artistic vision. This led to a sense of discontent and a desire to break free from the confines of their creative control. The episode demonstrated how this internal struggle might have contributed to Owen’s decision to propose the extreme entrance for the Over the Edge event, a decision that ultimately proved fatal.
Impact and Aftermath
The emotional toll of Owen Hart’s death was felt across the wrestling industry and beyond. It sparked a major shift in the way wrestling safety was viewed. The episode documented the aftermath of the incident and the subsequent investigations into the failings of the WWF. Martha Hart, in her grief, demanded accountability. Her unwavering fight for justice for her husband became a story in itself.
The episode highlights the lasting impact of Owen’s death, providing a glimpse into the wrestling world of the time. The episode emphasized the importance of safety measures, the need for transparency, and the crucial responsibility of organizations to protect their performers. The tragic accident serves as a constant reminder of the risks associated with professional wrestling, and the importance of prioritizing performers’ safety over entertainment.
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Legacy and Rememberance
The Dark Side of the Ring episode serves as a poignant tribute to the legacy of Owen Hart. It explores his wrestling aptitude, his charismatic persona, and ultimately, his tragic demise. The episode allows fans to see beyond the persona and connect with the real man behind the wrestler. It highlights his passionate drive, his family-oriented nature, and his desire for growth and recognition in the wrestling world.
Tips and Expert Advice
Dark Side of The Ring, through its exploration of Owen Hart’s life and death, provides us with a deeper understanding of the wrestling industry, its inherent dangers, and the importance of safety protocols. Here are a few takeaways from the episode:
- Value the life and safety of performers: Always remember that pro wrestlers are individuals with families and dreams beyond the showmanship of the ring. Prioritize their safety over entertainment.
- Demand accountability and transparency: Organizations have a responsibility to prioritize the safety of their performers. Criticize inadequate policies and demand changes.
- Support performers beyond entertainment: Look beyond the ring personas and recognize the individual’s hard work, dedication, and vulnerability.
FAQs
What role did the WWF play in the tragic accident?
The episode highlights the WWF’s negligence in ensuring proper safety protocols and their disregard for Owen’s concerns about his entrance. The episode paints a picture of a company focused on spectacle rather than the well-being of its performers. The WWF’s initial response after the incident only fueled further criticism and discontent.
What were Martha Hart’s efforts to seek justice?
Martha Hart, driven by profound grief and an unwavering desire for justice, fought to hold the WWF accountable for her husband’s death. She refused to allow the tragedy to be swept under the rug. Her persistent campaign for accountability brought much-needed attention to the failings of the WWF and exposed their lack of concern for performer safety.
What lasting impact did Owen Hart’s death have on the wrestling industry?
Owen’s death led to a seismic shift in the wrestling industry, particularly regarding safety protocols. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of performers, sparking discussions about worker’s rights and the need for proper safety regulations in the industry. The WWF, under pressure from public scrutiny and legal action, implemented stricter safety protocols as a direct result of the tragedy.
Dark Side Of The Ring Season 5 Episode 9
Conclusion
The Dark Side of the Ring episode titled “Owen Hart” is a testament to the complexities of the wrestling world. It sheds light on the highs and lows of a wrestling career, the importance of safety, and the tragic reality of accidents on a stage where danger is often romanticized. The episode invites us to remember Owen not just as “The King of Harts,” but as a real person, a husband, a father, and a brother. A wrestler who tragically lost his life in pursuit of his dreams.
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