The world of professional wrestling is built on larger-than-life personalities and unforgettable moments.
Yet behind the spotlight lies a rich history of resilience and personal triumph. ESPN’s newest Original Series, Stephanie’s Places, premiering today on ESPN+, takes viewers on a 10-episode journey through WWE’s past and present — guided by WWE icon Stephanie McMahon.
Audiences will follow McMahon as she visits iconic wrestling landmarks and connects with some of the biggest names in WWE history.
From CM Punk’s emotional return to John Cena reflecting on his storied career, the series offers an intimate look at the personal stories behind WWE’s brightest stars.
Front Row asked McMahon to share exclusive insights on what fans can expect.
What appealed to you most about starring in this new Places series?
The opportunity to work with best-in-class brands in ESPN, Omaha Productions, and WWE and get to know the stories behind some of WWE’s biggest stars.
How did your connection to WWE influence how you approached the series?
I literally grew up in WWE and WWE is family. There is a connection among all of us that is hard to explain, especially those who have been in the business for multiple generations, like Cody Rhodes, Charlotte Flair, Roman Reigns and the Bloodline.
We all love this business and the way we are connected to our fans. I tried to approach this project through their eyes, our fans’ eyes, and what would be not only entertaining, but also helpful. What adversities did their favorite stars overcome and how did they overcome them to get to the top?
I hope Stephanie’s Places makes fans feel an even deeper connection to their favorite stars when they hear about some of the journeys that made them who they are today. – Stephanie McMahon
What were some of the most memorable moments during filming?
I don’t want to leave anything out, but driving in the dune buggy at high speeds on a makeshift track with Stone Cold [Steve Austin], doing Rhea Ripley’s entrance with Rhea Ripley and eating turkey tails on a yacht in Miami with The Bloodline are for sure standout moments! Getting in a coffin is also memorable, [although] not one of my favorites.
How do you hope this series deepens fans’ connections to WWE and its Superstars?
I am a fan and have always been a fan. I grew up in the stands of our live events, in lines at convention centers and watching with my friends’ families on television. The WWE fan base is the greatest in the world. They go for the ride with our characters in and out of the ring, supporting their personal and professional journeys and connecting to their stories.
Storytelling is the most memorable when it is emotional and relatable. I hope Stephanie’s Places makes fans feel an even deeper connection to their favorite stars when they hear about some of the journeys that made them who they are today.
What do you hope audiences will take away?
I hope fans have a great time watching the series and want to see more. It is meant to be a fun ride with a few life lessons along the way, learned from some of the biggest WWE Superstars in the world today. I hope fans have as much fun watching the show as I did making it!
