Netflix's latest docuseries, Hulk Hogan: Real American, delves into the life of wrestling legend Terry Bollea, known as Hulk Hogan, tracing his spectacular rise and devastating fall. The four-part series, following the success of the Vince McMahon documentary, examines Hogan's journey from an era-defining American brand to a figure embroiled in scandal, including his close friendship with Donald Trump.
A Phenomenon in His Prime
Hogan, born Terry Bollea, was the face of WWE for years, a bundle of marketable traits that made him a household name. Despite his unphotogenic appearance—male pattern baldness and leathery, orange-tinted skin—he had an uncanny ability to connect with audiences. He became the shirt-ripping, catchphrase-spouting hero, embodying Reagan-era patriotism that seemed over the top even then. The documentary revels in his heyday, featuring toys, cartoons, and even a Pastamania restaurant in the Mall of America. It mirrors The Last Dance with peers and fans marveling at his ascent.
The Bleak Decline
However, the second half of Hogan's life was a downward spiral. His body suffered from wrestling, steroid use escalated, and he clung to fame even as it poisoned everything around him. The series highlights his refusal to cede the spotlight to Bret Hart, who called Hogan a "backstabbing, knife-wielding piece of shit." Hogan was embroiled in a steroid scandal, turned heel in WCW, and engaged in degrading stunts—Viagra matches, fake blood—to stay relevant. The documentary portrays him as a past-prime circus bear, tragic to watch.
Personal Scandals and MAGA Turn
Things worsened when his reality show Hogan Knows Best exposed his flawed home life. Terry Bollea, the man, was a mess: he had an affair with his daughter's friend, made a sex tape, sued Gawker with billionaire backing, abused fentanyl, sympathized with OJ Simpson, and made racist remarks that led WWE to cut ties. His final chapter came at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he ripped off his shirt and shouted "Let Trumpamania run wild, brother," winning Trump's favor but alienating fans. At Netflix's WWE launch, he was booed off stage. Three months later, he died.
A Portrait of a Broken Man
The series ends with a hagiographic montage, but the lasting image is of a broken man. It serves as a lesson that presenting oneself as invincible only highlights underlying weaknesses. No wonder Hogan felt such affinity with Trump.
