Hollywood heavyweights Ben Affleck and Matt Damon have officially pulled the plug on their long-gestating Hulk Hogan biopic, leaving fans and wrestling insiders wondering about the future of the wrestler’s story on screen. The film, which was set to center on Hogan’s explosive legal battle with Gawker Media over a leaked sex tape and associated racism controversy, is reportedly no longer in development, with the decision made months before Hogan’s passing in July 2025[1][2][3].

The Project and Its Controversial Focus

The canceled project—titled Killing Gawker—was envisioned to dramatize one of the most sensational chapters in Hogan’s life. It would have detailed Hogan’s lawsuit against Gawker, who published a 2007 leaked sex tape featuring the wrestling legend with his friend’s wife. The tape infamously included Hogan dropping a racial slur, which severely impacted his public image[1][3]. Hogan’s lawsuit ended with a $31 million judgment against Gawker in 2016, ultimately leading to the media company’s collapse. Tech billionaire Peter Thiel’s financial backing played a significant role in the legal victory, adding layers to the story beyond the wrestling world alone[1].

The legal battle was more than just a clash between Hogan and a blog; it ignited a heated national debate about privacy rights, freedom of speech, and billionaire influence over media narratives. The project had the potential to explore these themes in depth, a fact noted by wrestling journalists and media analysts alike[1].

Hogan’s Stance and Legal Concerns

Despite the involvement of high-profile Hollywood names, Hogan himself was not part of the film’s development. Sources close to Hogan revealed that he had distanced himself from the project and made it clear that he would take legal action if certain boundaries were crossed[2][3]. This apparent reluctance from Hogan contributed to the challenges surrounding the production.

In contrast, Bubba the Love Sponge, whose wife was also featured in the controversial tape, reportedly showed some interest in participating, suggesting differing perspectives among those connected to the scandal[3].

Why Was the Film Scrapped?

The reasons for scrapping Killing Gawker have not been publicly detailed. TMZ’s reporting indicates the decision was made well before Hogan’s death from cardiac arrest last week at age 71, thus the two events are unrelated[1][2]. Industry insiders speculate the combination of legal risks, Hogan’s opposition, and the sensitive nature of the subject matter likely factored into the shelving of the film. The complex interplay of legal and ethical issues surrounding privacy and representation in a biopic of this nature poses significant challenges for any filmmaker.

Additionally, another Hogan biopic starring Chris Hemsworth, which had Hogan as an executive producer, reportedly stalled before coming together. This adds to the pattern of difficulty in bringing Hogan’s life story, particularly its more controversial elements, to the screen[1].

Netflix’s Docuseries and the Future of Hogan’s Story

While Affleck and Damon’s Hollywood project is dead, other Hogan-related media efforts are underway. Netflix has been developing a Hogan docuseries since 2024, reportedly filming over 30 hours of footage, including extensive interviews with Hogan himself[1][4]. This documentary approach may offer a more nuanced and direct exploration of the wrestling icon’s life and controversies, potentially bypassing some legal and ethical pitfalls faced by dramatized versions.

According to sources close to WWE and entertainment journalists, the docuseries aims to provide a comprehensive look at Hogan’s career and the complicated legacy he leaves behind, from his groundbreaking impact on professional wrestling to the scandals that marred his later years[4].

Wrestling Community Reacts

Hogan’s sudden death sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow wrestlers, and celebrities across social media, underscoring his profound influence on professional wrestling and pop culture. WWE.com and Fightful.com have extensively covered reactions and memorials honoring Hogan’s contributions to the sport[5]. The shelving of the Affleck-Damon film, while disappointing to some wrestling fans eager for a cinematic portrayal, reflects the wrestling community’s recognition of how sensitive and complicated Hogan’s story truly is behind the spectacle.

A WWE insider told us, “Hogan’s story is iconic but complex. The legal battles and personal controversies present real challenges for any depiction trying to balance drama with respect. The Netflix docuseries might be the right way to tell this story—authentic and thoughtful.”[5]

Summary

• Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s Killing Gawker biopic about Hulk Hogan’s lawsuit against Gawker Media is officially canceled, with the decision made months before Hogan’s death in 2025[1][2].
• The film was to highlight Hogan’s leaked sex tape scandal, the racial slur controversy, and the landmark legal battle that led to a $31 million payout and Gawker’s shutdown[1][3].
• Hogan was not involved with the film and openly threatened legal action if the production crossed boundaries[2][3].
• The cancellation likely stems from a combination of legal, ethical, and personal factors surrounding the subject material[1][3].
• Netflix is currently developing a Hogan docuseries, which may offer a more balanced and direct account of Hogan’s life and legacy[1][4].
• WWE insiders and the wrestling community recognize Hogan’s complicated story and await respectful portrayals that honor his impact beyond the controversies[5].

This development marks a significant moment in how Hulk Hogan’s influential yet turbulent life will be remembered in film and media. While Affleck and Damon’s cinematic take won’t reach audiences, the wrestling icon’s story remains a compelling and cautionary tale shaping discussions about privacy, media, and legacy in the modern age.

Sources: TMZ, Awful Announcing, SEScoops, F4WOnline, WWE.com, Fightful.com