Netflix Is Removing Zac Efron's Devastating Wrestling Movie Based on a Real-Life Tragedy
Netflix U.S. subscribers have just days to check out the critically acclaimed A24 film The Iron Claw, a Zac Efron-led sports biopic chronicling one of professional wrestling's darkest chapters.
Per its official logline, The Iron Claw follows "The true story of the inseparable Von Erich brothers, who made history in the intensely competitive world of professional wrestling in the early 1980s. Through tragedy and triumph, under the shadow of their domineering father and coach, the brothers seek larger-than-life immortality on the biggest stage in sports."
Zac Efron (The Greatest Showman, High School Musical trilogy) leads the cast, portraying Kevin Von Erich, the legendary, now-retired professional wrestler from the late 1970s to early 1990s, as well as the sole surviving member of the Von Erich wrestling family. Jeremy Allen White (The Bear, Deliver Me from Nowhere) portrays Kerry Von Erich, while Harris Dickinson (Babygirl, The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event) and Stanley Simons (Mile End Kicks, Superior) portray David Von Erich and Mike Von Erich, respectively.
Additional supporting cast members include Lily James as Kevin's wife, Pam Adkisson, as well as Aaron Dean Eisenberg as professional wrestling legend Ric Flair. Rounding out the cast are Holt McCallany and Maura Tierney, portraying family patriarch and matriarch Jack "Fritz" Von Erich and Doris Von Erich, respectively.
The Iron Claw, released in 2023, is consistently ranked among the greatest sports films of recent memory and among the greatest wrestling movies of all time, with the latter designation by publications such as Complex, WatchMojo, and SlashFilm. Efron's performance in particular has been cited as one of the biggest Oscar snubs in recent years, with the breakout role for the actor, showcasing his talents in the intense dramatic and physical demands.
The Iron Claw leaves Netflix U.S. on June 19.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published May 22, 2026 at 2:46 PM.