AEW Honors WWE Veteran Kerwin Silfies: A Legacy of Television Production
The world of professional wrestling paused this week to remember Kerwin Silfies, a longtime WWE director who passed away at the age of 75. AEW Dynamite dedicated a segment on Wednesday to honor Silfies’ contributions, highlighting his impact on both WWE and the wider industry.
A Calm Hand Behind the Camera
Tony Schiavone, a veteran commentator with AEW, shared his recollections of Silfies, noting he first met him in 1989. Schiavone described Silfies as “a great man and an even better director,” emphasizing his ability to remain calm under pressure – a crucial trait in the fast-paced environment of live television production.
Bryan Danielson’s Emotional Tribute
The tribute took a particularly poignant turn when Bryan Danielson, a current AEW star, spoke about Silfies. Danielson became visibly emotional as he recalled Silfies’ kindness and patience when he first joined WWE. He admitted to having little understanding of television production at the time, and expressed gratitude for Silfies’ guidance and support.
From Saturday Night’s Main Event to Saudi Arabia
Kerwin Silfies’ career with WWE spanned from 1985 until his departure during the COVID-19 pandemic. He directed some of the most iconic programs in wrestling history, including all episodes of Saturday Night’s Main Event in the 1980s, numerous WrestleMania events, and WWE’s inaugural broadcasts in Saudi Arabia. His work helped shape the visual presentation of professional wrestling for a generation of fans.
The Importance of Behind-the-Scenes Talent
Silfies’ passing underscores the often-overlooked importance of behind-the-scenes personnel in the entertainment industry. While performers often receive the spotlight, directors like Silfies are essential in bringing the spectacle to life. Their expertise in camera work, editing, and overall production quality significantly impacts the viewer experience.
The Evolving Role of Directors in Wrestling
The role of a wrestling director has evolved significantly over the years. Early directors focused primarily on capturing the in-ring action. Today’s directors are responsible for a much broader range of tasks, including cinematic editing, incorporating special effects, and managing multiple camera angles to create a more dynamic and engaging product.
Industry Condolences
Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in from across the wrestling world, including messages from Triple H and Adam Pearce. This widespread outpouring of respect speaks to the high regard in which Silfies was held by his peers and colleagues.
FAQ
Who was Kerwin Silfies? Kerwin Silfies was a longtime WWE director who passed away at the age of 75.
What did Bryan Danielson say about Kerwin Silfies? Danielson described Silfies as kind and patient, and credited him with helping him learn about television production when he first joined WWE.
What were some of Kerwin Silfies’ notable projects? He directed Saturday Night’s Main Event, WrestleMania, and WWE’s first broadcast in Saudi Arabia.
When did Kerwin Silfies leave WWE? He departed the company during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Did you know? Kerwin Silfies’ career spanned over three decades, witnessing and shaping the evolution of professional wrestling television.
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