The tragic story of the Von Erich family is coming to the big screen. Filmmaker Sean Durkin, whose previous work includes Martha Marcy May Marlene and the upcoming The Nest, will script the story of one of pro wrestling’s most prolific families.
“I’m very excited about this one,” Durkin said. “It’s another family portrait, about a wrestling family who revolutionised the sport and then suffered tragedy.” Ross added, “Sean is an extraordinary filmmaker and we’re excited to be working with him.”
The Von Erichs tale began when the family patriarch, Fritz Von Erich, first became a star in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). He would go on to hold multiple championships during the 1960s prior to taking over as NWA President. He and his wife, Doris, would have six sons. They would tragically lose five of their children before Fritz himself passed, which led to a rumored “Von Erich Curse.” The Von Erich legacy lives on, however, in Kevin Von Erich and his sons, Marshall and Ross Von Erich, who are the current reigning Major League Wrestling tag team champions. The family were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame back in 2009 and were inducted by Fabulous Freebirds member Michael "P.S." Hayes.
Durkin has teamed with Tessa Ross, former Film4 chief, and Juliette Howell, who will be producing the movie under House Productions. Rose Garnett of BBC Films is also a part of the project, and will be co-financing the production.
(via Deadline)