Hulk Hogan Threatens Legal Action

It looks like Hulk Hogan, the legendary WWE superstar, is ready to enter the ring once again—but this time, it’s not in the squared circle.

Instead, it’s in the courtroom. Reports are swirling that Hogan is prepared to take legal action if the upcoming film about his notorious bonk tape scandal goes too far. Let’s break down what’s happening.

Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, has become the focus of Hollywood’s latest interest. Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, through their production company Artists Equity, have reportedly acquired a screenplay about Hogan’s high-profile legal battle against Gawker Media.

The script, penned by Charles Randolph and based on Ryan Holiday’s book Conspiracy: Peter Thiel, Hulk Hogan, Gawker, and the Anatomy of Intrigue, has piqued interest in Tinseltown. Rumor has it that Good Will Hunting director Gus Van Sant is set to direct, and there’s even buzz that Affleck might take on the role of Hogan himself.

But here’s the kicker: Hulk Hogan isn’t exactly thrilled about the prospect. According to TMZ, Hogan has not been in touch with Affleck or Damon and has no involvement in the project.

While he feels “indifferent” about the film itself, he’s made it clear that he will not hesitate to pursue legal action if the movie crosses any lines and violates his right to privacy.

Hogan is reportedly in a good place in his life right now. At 70, he has recently remarried, embraced spirituality, and ventured into a new business opportunity with his own beer brand. Additionally, Hogan has been giving back to the community through charitable work with homeless shelters in Tampa, Florida.

This potential legal drama stems from Hogan’s landmark court case against Gawker Media. Back in March 2016, a jury awarded Hogan a staggering $141 million in damages after Gawker published a video showing him having intercourse with Heather Clem, the then-wife of radio personality Bubba the Love Sponge.

Gawker argued that the footage was newsworthy and protected by the First Amendment, but the court disagreed, finding that Gawker had violated Hogan’s privacy and caused him significant emotional distress. The ruling ultimately led to Gawker’s shutdown, although it briefly resurfaced under new ownership in 2021 before being shuttered again last year.