Commentators began being utilized in the 1950s, when television became popular. The pro-wrestling industry felt a need for detailed play-by-play commentary to enhance drama and build character during shows that were now reaching a wider audience. During this period, commentary was often factual and straightforward. Commentators such as Gordon Solie and Lance Russell primarily focused on describing the action in the ring for the audience. They were the voices of wrestling, connecting with viewers at home and guiding them through the action.
Starting with the 1980s and 1990s, this foundational approach changed, as commentary teams became more defined to appeal to a broader audience that was now seeing pro-wrestling via cable television nationally. Commentary focused less on describing the action of a match and emphasized the drama and entertainment aspect of pro-wrestling, the impact of moves, the larger-than-life characters, and the feuds, while building up the stakes of matches. The heel color commentator became a feature, with figures like Jesse Ventura, Bobby Heenan, and Paul E. Dangerously (Paul Heyman) excelling at this. They would actively trash talk fan favorites, praise rulebreakers, and provide a contrasting viewpoint to the more neutral or fan favorite-leaning play-by-play commentator (like Gorilla Monsoon and Jim Ross), who continued to be the anchor of the broadcast. This added a new layer of drama and often humor. Wrestlers had developed more distinct characters, and commentators mirrored this change, as they presented unique personalities and popular catchphrases, while providing analysis. This was the beginning of when a commentator was no longer only a narrator and became a storyteller, wanting to enhance the overall entertainment value of the show.
There have been cases where people have entered a pro-wrestling company as a commentator, and later transitioned into a different role. One example is Bruce Prichard, who after working in WWE since 1987, joined the GWF in 1991. GWF play-by-play commentator Craig Johnson lobbied for him, possibly noting that Prichard had experience in WWE as a commentator and an on-screen character (Brother Love). After first working in the GWF as a color commentator, Prichard later became one of the prominent heel managers in the company.
While most commentators prioritized focusing on the drama, emotional stakes, and entertainment value of professional wrestling, using their voices to amplify the narratives and reactions, Mike Tenay was a commentator who was generally more focused on the action and technical/historical description of a match. While working for WCW and TNA, he was known for his deep knowledge of wrestling, with Tenay's commentary showcasing his knowledge by explaining moves, histories, and international styles. Tenay also had an appreciation for international wrestling, particularly Japanese wrestling and lucha libre- he was valuable in explaining lucha libre to a broader American audience in WCW.
In addition, founders/owners of wrestling companies have also been commentators for their shows. The best example is David McLane, the visionary behind both GLOW (Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling) and WOW - Women Of Wrestling. Being both the creator and a commentator has several positives. Firstly, it ensures a consistent creative vision from inception to execution; his understanding of the product and its characters directly translates into his commentary, enabling McLane to highlight the narratives and personalities he intends for the audience to grasp. Secondly, McLane's direct involvement as a voice of the show grows a strong sense of ownership and passion that resonates with viewers, as they witness the architect of the product actively engaging with it. Lastly, his position allows for immediate, real-time adaptation and emphasis on feuds, as he can use his commentary to reinforce important situations or character developments as they unfold, giving the show a distinct and cohesive feel that might be lost if a different commentator were handling the role. McLane has a consistent, prominent, and long-running nature of his direct commentary for his own creations, which relies heavily on a strong, guiding personality. It's a testament to his vision and his commitment to being the voice of his product.
Many wrestling commentators have become legends, their voices instantly recognizable to wrestling fans, and their commentary has become a part of some of the most memorable moments in wrestling history. The evolution of wrestling commentary also reflects changes in audience expectations and the overall style of professional wrestling. As wrestling became more fast-paced and high-flying, commentators had to adapt, providing context for complex feuds and keeping up with the action.
Today, commentary is a diverse and dynamic landscape, constantly adapting to the evolving product and audience. In major sports entertainment, particularly WWE and AEW, a trend has become prominent. The three-person commentary booth is now a common feature, often featuring a play-by-play announcer, a traditional color commentator, and a third 'analyst' or 'heel' voice, offering varied perspectives. This format is also seen in WOW, when Adriana Gambino sits at the commentary booth while members of her Alliance faction are having a match. Additionally, the popularity of social media means commentators frequently integrate fan reactions, trending topics, and even direct social media interactions into their calls.
Beyond the American landscape, wrestling commentary globally offers interesting distinctions. This reflects the global reach of professional wrestling and the unique cultural approaches to professional wrestling in each region.
Commentary in Canada, while often mirroring the sports entertainment focus of its American counterpart due to geographical and cultural closeness, distinguishes itself through a significant emphasis on bilingualism, particularly in regions like Quebec where French-language broadcasts offer a distinct verbal and cultural flavor. Historically, Canadian commentators, especially those involved in notable promotions like Stampede Wrestling, also possessed a deep understanding of the technical aspects of wrestling, reflecting a broader appreciation for diverse styles that occasionally incorporated British or Japanese influences, even though modern commentary largely aligns with the dominant WWE style. This blend results in a commentary style that is familiar to American audiences but often carries subtle variations in tone, terminology, and historical context.
Wrestling commentary in Japan stands out with its emphasis on the fighting spirit (tōkon), the intensity of the in-ring action, and the precise technical execution of maneuvers. Japanese commentators (like Soichi Shibata) prioritize the drama unfolding within the match itself, focusing on impactful strikes, intricate submissions, and the endurance of the wrestlers. While analytical and knowledgeable about various wrestling and martial arts styles, Japanese commentary can also be excitable and exclamatory, particularly during key moments, seamlessly blending technical insight with an enthusiasm that highlights the hard-hitting, physical style of puroresu.
Wrestling commentary in Mexico is rapid-fire, which perfectly complements the athleticism, high-flying, and risk-taking of the in-ring action. Distinguished by its dynamic energy and dramatic skill, commentators energetically spotlight the never-ending battle between good and evil, openly displaying their loyalties and contributing to the clear good-versus-evil narrative. Using a unique blend of enthusiastic exclamations, vibrant sound effects, and even rhythmic vocalizations, lucha libre commentators elevate the spectacle and tradition of the sport, focusing on the agility, aerial artistry, and the culturally noteworthy symbolism of the mask in lucha libre.
From the early play-by-play announcers to modern-day color commentators, wrestling commentators have played an influential role in shaping the way we experience and appreciate professional wrestling. They have the potential to enhance the viewing experience by providing analysis, building narrative, and expressing the emotion and excitement of the match to the audience.
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