Eric Bischoff Claims WWE Spent $50,000 On Makeup For A SmackDown Segment

In a recent episode of his “83 Weeks” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff pulled back the curtain on one of the most memorable and expensive storylines from 2002. Bischoff shared shocking details about the extraordinary lengths WWE went to for a single segment that has since become one of the most memorable in history.

The storyline in question centred around the commitment ceremony of Billy and Chuck, which aired on a September 2002 edition of SmackDown. What made this segment particularly noteworthy was Bischoff’s unexpected appearance, disguised as a priest, on the rival show to his own Raw brand. At the time, Bischoff was serving as Raw’s General Manager, and he was feuding with SmackDown General Manager Stephanie McMahon.

Bischoff revealed the astonishing cost and effort that went into his disguise.

The company spent a fortune on prosthetics and all that shit. They had to spend $50 grand on that shit.

The expense, however, didn’t stop there. WWE flew in two makeup artists from Los Angeles solely for the purpose of applying and removing Bischoff’s elaborate makeup. The preparation for this single segment began a month in advance, with Bischoff flying to LA to get fitted and moulded for the mask.

They flew two makeup artists out from LA for three days to put the makeup on and take the makeup off, it cost a fortune, And I had to fly to LA like a month before this to get fitted and moulded for the mask. It was a big deal, and I didn’t want to be the one to screw it up.

Despite the pressure, Bischoff praised the segment’s writer, Brian Gewirtz, and acknowledged the talent of his co-stars in the ring.

Brian Gewirtz wrote the segment, it was a great segment, a really, really great segment, and I was in the ring with a bunch of really talented people.

The payoff, according to Eric Bischoff, was well worth the extensive preparation and cost. The surprise factor of his appearance, coupled with the high-quality production, resulted in a moment that has stood the test of time in WWE history. Bischoff fondly remembers it as his favourite moment to ever be involved in.

So it was such a fun segment as a performer to do, and the payoff was so good. That will always be my favourite.

Eric Bischoff praising this moment, cements the legacy of a segment that showcased WWE’s commitment to creating unforgettable moments, regardless of the cost.

In a new interview, Eric Bischoff commented on the likelihood of further appearances.

Which Former TNA Executive Does Eric Bischoff Believe Was Too Good For The Wrestling Business?

Eric Bischoff spoke about how he thinks former TNA President Dixie Carter was too good for the wrestling industry. Bischoff said he thinks Carter had good intentions when she started with TNA but that she was in over her head in trying to lead a wrestling company with no prior experience.

H/t to TJRWrestling.net