10 Ways The Chris Benoit Double-Murder/Suicide Case Changed WWE Forever
7. Help The Aged
A genuine positive from WWE's panicked responses to accusations of horrific talent treatment was the retrospective drug and alcohol rehabilitation offered to any individual that had worked for the organisation at any time.
In a 2007 letter to all talent, WWE offered the support, which was taken up by several key stars past and present. Though not directly as a result of the programme, previously considered lost causes such as Scott Hall and Sean Waltman were public in their gracious thanks towards the organisation for trying to help them out in a time of great need.
Vince himself was more open about the real motivation during the post-Benoit congressional hearings, highlighting how significant the murders had been and the level of brand management required in the ugly aftermath.
When asked what motivated the outreach, he said, “Two words: public relations. That’s it. I do not feel any sense of responsibility for anyone of whatever their age is who has passed along and has bad habits and overdoses for drugs. Sorry, I don’t feel any responsibility for that. Nonetheless, that’s why we’re [sending the letter]. It is a magnanimous gesture.”
The same level of honesty was lacking during future charitable endeavours, despite even more cynical motivations...