Jeff Hardy recently appeared on the latest episode of Insight With Chris Van Vliet, where he opened up about a variety of topics, including the use of his real-life struggles in wrestling storylines. Hardy’s history of personal challenges, particularly with substance abuse, has often been incorporated into WWE programming, creating controversial and emotionally charged narratives.
One notable example is the storyline feud with his brother Matt Hardy in 2009, where WWE claimed that Matt had burned down Jeff’s house, resulting in the death of his dog in a tragic fire. This storyline culminated in a heated street fight between the brothers at WrestleMania 25, blending real-life hardships with dramatic fiction.
Hardy’s candid discussion on the podcast sheds light on how these storylines have impacted him personally and professionally, as well as his perspective on using sensitive topics to enhance storytelling in wrestling.
“It’s weird too, because my personal life kind of became a professional life back in ’08, ’09 and that a lot of people, you know, that’s messed up. They’re going there, ‘Man.’ But I mean, in a way, I think it helped me, but also, looking back at it now, ‘I go, Oh, my God, was that the right thing to do, you know?’ Because that is my personal life. And now, here we are in my professional. It’s super interesting, like me and the storyline and the feud with CM Punk was just so amazing, and that kind of helped make it that way, because we were complete opposites. But yes, it’s just like, there’s really no difference in Jeff Hardy. That’s why I’m excited too. There’s this alter ego of mine, alter Nero of mine, named Willow, and he appeared in TNA, my last run in TNA, and there’s a new mask with a brand new face plate. And, man, I haven’t tried it on yet, but when I go pick it up, and if it fits real good, I’m sure I’m going to get excited about possibilities with, you know, a way darker side of Jeff Hardy, or way more just spiritual, innovative character that Willow’s never actually been in the past. The original idea with Willow is, like, nothing makes sense, because he’s not human. He’s just some alien. He’s the God of my imagination. That’s kind of where it all started. But for him to be like my dark passenger and kind of guy Jeff Hardy, into this different zone and pro wrestling, you know. I think there might be something pretty powerful within that.”
The interview offers a rare glimpse into Hardy’s thoughts on balancing his personal life with the demands of the wrestling world, showcasing his resilience and commitment to his craft despite past challenges.
You can check out the complete interview below:
(h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription)
