The Real Deal: Winning The Fans Back
Written by Roxanne Springer: ravenbrooks_2000@yahoo.com
It seems the big question in WWE these days is how to bring back former viewers. What do they need to do to lure back those who have stopped watching? A recent poll said most people have stopped tuning in because the storylines have become dull. I think I have the answer; and I can sum up the solution in a single word. REALISM.
The Hardy/Edge/Lita situation of 2005 was a valuable lesson in this matter. The entire drama caught up millions in its spell, and they watched RAW week after week to see it play out. Why? Because it smacked of reality. The stakes were personal, sentimental, and very high. It took the love triangle scenario a few steps beyond; the circumstances had spilled over from real life. The fans loved it and ate it up. I know several prominent wrestling publications named it 2005 feud of the year.
Another successful carry over stemmed from a fistfight that took place between Booker T and Batista at a magazine shoot. It was a red hot topic while it lasted and the fans loved it because it was real life drama. Ratings soared and devoted followers begged for more. The fans want to feel as if they are seeing their favorite stars being people as well as talented performers.
I wrote a torrid romance novel called SUPERSTAR; it was released on June 15 by Whiskey Creek Press Torrid. It is sizzling romance set in the world of pro wrestling. It is a total work of fiction, but there was one thing I noticed that further proves my point. Every single review, comment, and fan letter I have received had one thing in common. They all touted the behind the scenes action I provided. There is a message there, and it is loud and clear: That is what the people are craving. They want to be a part of the backstage action as well.
Please do not think I am saying the fans should be able to bulldoze their way into the private lives of their favorite wrestlers. I am an advocate for them having their own lives away from the daily grind. I have always and will always encourage everyone to respect the wrestlers’ privacy and personal lives. They need their time away, it is vital to their overall health and well-being.
As far as winning back former viewers the evidence is there—the fans are making their desires clear—it just needs to be acted upon by the powers that be at WWE.
Comments? Kudos? Complaints? Reach me at ravenbrooks_2000@yahoo.com
