Podcast Summary: This Is Important – Episode 259: "Is Wrestling Art? (Trick Question)"

Release Date: August 5, 2025

In Episode 259 of This Is Important, hosted by Adam Devine, Anders Holm, Blake Anderson, and Kyle Newacheck, the team delves into the provocative question: "Is Wrestling Art?" Through a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful debates, the hosts explore the multifaceted nature of professional wrestling, its place in the realm of art, and the ethical considerations surrounding the personas of iconic figures like Hulk Hogan.

1. Opening Thoughts and Social Media Dynamics

The episode commences with light-hearted banter about social media usage, particularly focusing on Instagram's "Close Friends" feature. Kyle initiates the conversation, expressing his desire to streamline his Instagram interactions:

Kyle Newacheck [10:18]: "Do you guys think this is a good idea or a bad idea? I feel like Instagram, for me, I want to only have it be for people that I basically never see."

This segues into a discussion about maintaining genuine connections versus the superficiality often perpetuated on social platforms. The hosts laugh about the challenges of managing online personas and the tendency to overshare or undercommunicate in digital spaces.

2. Body Image and Personal Anecdotes

Transitioning from social media, the conversation takes a humorous turn towards body image and weight management. Blake shares personal experiences related to weight fluctuations:

Blake Anderson [26:30]: "I can't stop eating. What's that?"

Adam responds with playful concern:

Adam Devine [31:57]: "I like you anyway. 205."

The dialogue highlights the group's camaraderie and their ability to address sensitive topics with humor. They touch upon themes of body positivity, self-acceptance, and the societal pressures surrounding physical appearance.

3. Wrestling as an Art Form

At the heart of the episode lies a robust debate on whether professional wrestling qualifies as an art form. The hosts dissect the performative aspects of wrestling, questioning its classification alongside traditional arts like theater or dance.

Blake Anderson [52:25]: "I'd like to do an early take back and saying that wrestling is an art. Once you explained performance art, you're right. That's exactly what it is."

Adam probes deeper into the essence of wrestling:

Adam Devine [39:58]: "The art and the artist thing, why doesn't it apply to wrestlers?"

The discussion revolves around the blend of athleticism, storytelling, and theatricality inherent in wrestling. They explore how wrestlers craft larger-than-life personas, akin to actors, and whether this fusion elevates wrestling to an art form or relegates it purely to entertainment.

4. Separating the Art from the Artist

The conversation naturally progresses to the contentious topic of separating an artist's work from their personal flaws or controversies. Using Hulk Hogan as a focal point, the hosts debate the feasibility and morality of distinguishing his contributions to wrestling from his off-screen indiscretions.

Adam Devine [39:54]: "I just think that there is actually, like, a conversation to be had about him more than just, like, dismissing him as, like, a bad person."

Blake Anderson [43:29]: "I don't really remember it all that well. I kind of just remember their living room, like, how it was set up."

They draw parallels with other public figures, such as Bill Cosby, discussing the broader implications for society when art is tainted by the artist's misconduct. The dialogue delves into the responsibilities of creators and consumers in reconciling admiration for their work with disapproval of their actions.

5. Ethical Implications and Legacy of Wrestlers

Furthering their exploration, the hosts consider the lasting impact of wrestlers on popular culture and the ethical dimensions of their legacies. They ponder whether the entertainment value justifies overlooking personal failings and how future generations will perceive these dualities.

Kyle Newacheck [43:40]: "Or just even using this example. Yeah. Or just using this example. Yeah."

Adam Devine [44:46]: "I always had a good idea. I'd love to float it by you guys. And since this is a safe space and it's TII, it's definitely not podcast."

The conversation underscores the complexity of idolizing figures who embody both admirable talents and significant moral shortcomings, highlighting the nuanced discussions necessary in contemporary discourse.

6. Reflections on Reality Shows and Public Personas

Shifting focus, the hosts critique reality television's role in shaping and sometimes distorting public personas. Referencing "The Osbournes" and similar shows, they examine how these platforms contribute to the mythologizing or demonizing of family dynamics and individual behaviors.

Blake Anderson [58:45]: "I don't remember loving it. But looking back, that era of putting families on reality shows has proved to be problematic."

This segment serves as a critique of how media representations can oversimplify complex personal lives, affecting public perception and legacy.

7. Closing Remarks and Apologies

As the episode winds down, the hosts address moments of tension and offer playful apologies, reinforcing their bond and the show's overarching theme of addressing "crucially important" topics with levity.

Adam Devine [60:44]: "I don't take back at the fat shaming of you in Seattle and Oklahoma, Adam. I'm really, I don't really remember doing that."

Blake Anderson [61:25]: "You're our little Bam Bam Bigelow. All right."

The episode concludes on a lighthearted note, encapsulating the show's blend of serious debate and camaraderie.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Adam Devine [00:45]: "When you're comfortable in your own shoes, not just the physical comfort, but being self-assured with who you are too powerful things happen."

• Blake Anderson [03:43]: "Never stop, Jesus."

• Blake Anderson [43:29]: "I don't really remember it all that well. I kind of just remember their living room, like, how it was set up."

• Adam Devine [39:58]: "The art and the artist thing, why doesn't it apply to wrestlers?"

• Blake Anderson [52:25]: "I'd like to do an early take back and saying that wrestling is an art."

Conclusion

Episode 259 of This Is Important engages listeners in a thought-provoking examination of professional wrestling's artistic merit and the ethical implications of idolizing flawed public figures. Through witty exchanges and candid discussions, Adam, Anders, Blake, and Kyle offer a nuanced perspective that challenges conventional categorizations of art and entertainment. Whether you're a wrestling enthusiast or simply curious about the intersection of performance and morality, this episode provides valuable insights wrapped in the trademark humor and camaraderie that This Is Important is known for.