Iron Claw Actor Defends ‘Darker Take’ On Ric Flair

A24

The actor who played Ric Flair in the A24 film ‘The Iron Claw’ has spoken out in defense of his portrayal of the legend.

Drawing plenty of ire online for his performance in the film despite appearing relatively briefly, actor Aaron Dean Eisenberg has now come to understand backlash from the pro wrestling fandom.

However, he provides solid details into his portrayal and his choice to not make the role an ‘impersonation’, rather show a ‘darker take’ on Flair for the Iron Claw.

Speaking on ‘Man Cave Chronicles’, Eisenberg said:

“My first initial thought, which I stuck with and Sean agreed with, we weren’t going to go for an impersonation.

“I just felt like there was so much out there on the internet impersonating him in a really great way. It didn’t feel like a mimicry of him would fit into that moment of the film and into that world of the film.

“My approach was, how do I get down this guy’s essence and his energy and understand him and what he’s doing, in and out of the ring?

“Just figure out his energy and reasons for things. Stay away from doing any kind of impression. A lot of it, for me, was about the stakes for the Von Erichs because of their relationship to their father and what it meant to the family to get this belt.

“It felt like the stakes were so high for them, that my take on it became a more serious thing than Flair was in real life. It was a darker take on him.”

According to the actor, he never got a chance to connect with Flair to discuss the role personally.

Ric Flair continues to appear in AEW. The film also featured a brief cameo appearance by AEW World Champion MJF.

You can click here to read more about how the star reacted to his scene landing on the cutting room floor.

Transcription via Fightful

Want to stay up to date with all the most important Wrestling and WrestleTalk News? Join our newsletter mailing list by clicking here, and selecting your preferences!

• Ric Flair
• AEW

Share this article with friends