Francesca Eastwood takes on the role of WWE Hall of Famer and legendary tough gal, Mae Young in ‘Queen of the Ring‘ in theaters today.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it to the world premiere at the Newport Beach Film Festival, but I was thrilled to have the opportunity to chat with Francesca Eastwood, who portrays WWE Hall of Famer Mae Young in the film ‘Queen of the Ring‘.
‘Queen of the Ring‘ is more than just a sports drama; it’s the powerful, true story of Mildred Burke, a woman who shattered barriers in the 1930s to become the first million-dollar female athlete by dominating the male-dominated world of professional wrestling. At a time when women’s wrestling was nearly nonexistent and often illegal in much of the U.S., Mildred’s unyielding courage, determination, and resilience forever changed the landscape of the sport.
Based on Jeff Leen’s Pulitzer Prize-winning book, the film chronicles Mildred’s extraordinary journey—from being a single mother wrestling men at carnivals to revolutionizing the sport and breaking down societal and gender barriers that seemed insurmountable. Her story isn’t just about wrestling; it’s about defying expectations, facing adversity head-on, and paving the way for women in a world that wasn’t ready for them. This is a tale of grit, perseverance, and triumph that transcends wrestling.
Written and directed by Ash Avildsen, ‘Queen of the Ring‘ boasts an impressive ensemble cast, led by Emily Bett Rickards as Mildred Burke. The film also stars Josh Lucas as her husband, wrestling promoter Billy Wolfe, and Walton Goggins as Jack Pfefer, head of the National Wrestling Alliance.
The cast also includes Tyler Posey, Marie Avgeropoulos, Deborah Ann Woll, Cara Buono, Adam Demos, Martin Kove, Kelli Berglund, Damaris Lewis, AEW Superstars Kamille and Toni Storm, WWE Superstar Naomi, and Gavin Casalegno. Together, they bring to life the personal and professional obstacles Mildred faced, from her turbulent relationship with her ex-husband and manager to her relentless push for diversity and inclusivity in the sport, helping women of color break into wrestling as well.
‘Queen of the Ring‘ is more than just a wrestling movie—it’s a tribute to a woman whose strength and determination helped shape the future of female athletes everywhere. The film captures not only the golden age of professional wrestling but also the sacrifices Mildred made—both personally and professionally—to create a legacy that would inspire generations of women to follow in her footsteps.
During our chat, Eastwood and I joked about how Mae Young could’ve given her father a run for his money as a “tough guy.” We also discussed how Young was unapologetically herself in an era when women were expected to be meek, the incredible costuming, and our shared love of cigars.
‘Queen of the Ring‘ is a celebration of what it means to be a pioneer, a fighter, and a true trailblazer. It reminds us that no matter the challenges, one woman’s unshakeable belief in herself can change history.
Opening in select theaters nationwide, today, March 7, 2025, ‘Queen of the Ring‘ is a fitting release for International Women’s Day, paying tribute to the trailblazing spirit of women wrestlers that lead to GLOW, WOW and the WWE incredible women’s division.
