Former WWE producer compares job to daily misery
Former WWE producer Steve Keirn is not looking back on his time behind the scenes with much fondness.
Speaking recently on Busted Open Radio, the wrestling veteran compared working as a WWE producer to “going to the dentist every day,” offering a candid look at a role that fans rarely hear about.
Keirn, who wrestled for decades and was known in WWE as Skinner, explained that the transition from performer to producer was far more difficult than he expected. While many assume the position allows former wrestlers to stay involved in the business they love, Keirn described it as a demanding job filled with constant pressure and responsibility.
According to Keirn, the producer role involved much more than helping wrestlers put matches together.
He recalled dealing with production meetings, talent management, travel-related issues, and making sure everything stayed on schedule. Instead of focusing purely on the creative side of wrestling, he often felt pulled in multiple directions throughout the day.
He also reflected on difficult interactions with WWE management during his tenure. Keirn pointed to disagreements over match production and creative decisions, suggesting that the environment could be stressful even for someone with decades of experience in the industry.
His comments painted a picture of a job where expectations were high and mistakes were rarely overlooked.
The remarks are noteworthy because producers play a major role in shaping WWE programming despite spending little time in the spotlight.
They help structure matches, coordinate timing for television, communicate with talent, and ensure that storylines progress as planned. While viewers usually focus on the wrestlers in the ring, producers are often responsible for making those performances work on live television.
Keirn’s perspective also highlights how much the wrestling business has changed over the years. He came from a generation that learned t
