The upcoming Netflix documentary on WWE icon Hulk Hogan will feature an extraordinary cameo from former President Donald Trump, it has been revealed. The wrestling legend, whose real name was Terry Bollea, passed away from a heart attack at the age of 71 in July of last year. However, shortly before his death, Hogan completed filming for a documentary with the streaming giant, detailing his storied and often controversial life.
A Final Interview and Presidential Connection
The project, titled 'Hulk Hogan: Real American,' had been in development since 2024 and became Hogan's final interview following his sudden passing. Hogan reportedly gave over 20 hours of interviews for the documentary, which premieres on Netflix on April 22. The film includes a surprise send-off from Donald Trump, adding a unique political dimension to the sports biography.
Director Recalls Surreal Filming Experience
Bryan Storkel, the director of the documentary, shared insights into the filming process with the New York Post. He recalled the surreal moment when Hogan casually called Trump to arrange an interview. "It was clear Hogan had a relationship with Trump... at one point I was like, 'Yeah, we should get Trump.' And he was like, 'Well, let me call him right now.' And he just dialed him," Storkel said.
Storkel described being in awe during speakerphone conversations with the then-president, questioning the reality of the situation. "I'm sitting in a car with Hulk Hogan. He's talking to the sitting president of the United States. What crazy world did I get myself into?" he remarked. In May of last year, just months before Hogan's death, Storkel traveled to the White House where Trump dedicated 20 minutes to the documentary, even mentioning he had to return to dealings with Russia.
Voicemail and Convention Endorsement
The documentary reportedly features Hogan playing a voicemail from Trump, thanking him for his speech at the 2024 Republican National Convention. At that event, Hogan famously ripped off his shirt to reveal a Trump-Vance tank top, a moment that underscored their alliance. Storkel noted Hogan's pride in this relationship, stating, "Just seeing his reaction to Trump's voicemail as he's listening to it, you can tell he's proud of it. It also just shows how close their relationship was, whether you love that or hate that, it was there."
Tributes and Personal Struggles
Following Hogan's death, Trump led tributes on social media, praising the wrestler as "MAGA all the way" and highlighting his strength and cultural impact. The documentary also delves into Hogan's personal life, including his extreme pain management regimen. Storkel revealed that Hogan used a combination of fentanyl treatments—including patches and lollipops—to cope with pain from his 35-year wrestling career, showcasing his "abnormal" pain tolerance.
Reflections on Legacy and Truth
In the trailer released earlier this month, Hogan reflects on his legacy in a voiceover, saying, "I can't predict what the final act of the story is gonna be. But the legend of Hulk Hogan will live forever." He added, "Some people hate me, but after I'm gone, I think people don't know the truth. Who was this guy really? I really was here for a reason more than just wrestling."
The docuseries promises to "uncover the man behind the legend" through interviews with Hogan's friends, peers, and ex-wife Linda Hogan. This comprehensive look aims to provide fans with a deeper understanding of the wrestling icon's complex life and enduring influence.
