Stephen Merchant and Dwayne Johnson are turning 'Fighting With My Family' into a stage musical

The underdog wrestling story that charmed moviegoers in 2019 is lacing up its boots for a new kind of spotlight. 'Fighting With My Family,' Stephen Merchant's heartfelt biopic about WWE star Paige, is being reimagined as a stage musical. The news, confirmed by Deadline on April 22, 2026, marks a full-circle moment for the film's creative team - Merchant is returning as a producer, as is Dwayne Johnson, who played a mentor version of himself in the original.

The film, inspired by a BBC documentary, followed real-life wrestler Saraya-Jade Bevis - known professionally as Paige - as she fought her way from a tight-knit, working-class wrestling family in Norwich to becoming the youngest female champion in WWE history. Florence Pugh starred in the lead role, earning praise for her performance, while Johnson brought both star power and personal connection, drawing from his own journey in the wrestling world.

Now, the story is trading the ring ropes for theater lights. The stage adaptation is being developed by Tilted Mill Entertainment in partnership with Johnson and Dany Garcia's Seven Bucks Productions. Hiram Garcia, another key figure at Seven Bucks, is also on board. While details like casting, music, and premiere dates are still under wraps, the project is officially in motion, aiming to translate the film's mix of grit, humor, and family loyalty into a live theatrical experience.

Bringing a wrestling story to the stage poses a fun challenge - how to capture the physicality and drama of the ring without actual suplexes. But musicals have tackled bold concepts before, and the emotional core of 'Fighting With My Family' - a young woman carving her own path in a loud, male-dominated world - could resonate powerfully in song and dialogue.

Merchant, best known for his comedy work on 'The Office' and 'Extras,' wrote and directed the original film with a balance of warmth and wit. His continued involvement suggests the musical will keep that tone, even as it expands the story for the stage. Johnson, who began his career in WWE before becoming a global movie star, has stayed connected to his roots, and this project fits his recent trend of blending personal history with entertainment ventures.

While no theater, composer, or opening night has been announced, the mere fact that the project is moving forward has sparked interest among fans of both musical theater and wrestling. The story's British roots, family dynamics, and themes of self-belief could give the show broad appeal, especially if it leans into its unique cultural flavor.

For now, the spotlight is still behind the curtain. But with Merchant and Johnson in the producer's corner, 'Fighting With My Family' looks ready to make its next move - one that might just bring down the house, without needing a body slam.