Producers of the film “Queen of the Ring” have publicly stated that Vince McMahon personally withdrew WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) performer Charlotte Flair from a significant role in their movie, allegedly because it was an independent production rather than a major studio project, despite WWE Studios initially proposing her for the part.
The allegation surfaced on the official X account for “Queen of the Ring,” a film chronicling the life of women’s wrestling pioneer Mildred Burke, which was released in March. According to the posts, Charlotte Flair, a prominent WWE figure since her developmental signing on May 17, 2012, was initially set to portray June Byers.
The film’s account shared, “The incredible Charlotte Flair training with our lead Emily at OVW in the days leading up to the start of filming. WWE Studios had submitted her for the movie and she was originally cast as June Byers, but we were told Vince McMahon then personally pulled her out because we were a small independent film, not a major studio release.”
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Despite not appearing in the credited role, Flair contributed by training Emily Bett Rickards, who played Mildred Burke. The producers expressed their appreciation: “Charlotte played a real part in training Emily for the role and we are forever grateful for her involvement.” The role of June Byers ultimately went to Kamille, also known as Kailey Latimer, who is married to Thom Latimer, Flair’s ex-husband from 2013-2015. The producers lauded Kamille’s last-minute acceptance of the part, stating, “Luckily, Kailey ‘Kamille’ Latimer was available last minute and took on the role of June, delivering a truly stellar performance. It was her first time acting and she did all of her own stunts. Had Kailey not stepped up when and how she did, who knows what would have happened. She saved the day and we love her so much! Truly a superstar.”
This account of Flair’s departure from the project differs from earlier reports which had suggested she passed on the opportunity due to injuries. “Queen of the Ring” would have marked Flair’s third appearance on the silver screen; she was previously in USA Network’s “Psych: The Movie” in 2017 and recently completed filming “You Lose You Die,” playing Ms. Perfect.
Other wrestling personalities featured in “Queen of the Ring” include Naomi, Britt Baker, Mickie James, and AEW Women’s World Champion Toni Storm. Liv Morgan was reportedly unable to take on the role of Clara Mortensen due to scheduling conflicts.
a truly stellar performance. It was her first time acting and she did all of her own stunts. Had Kailey not stepped up when and how she did, who knows what would have happened. She saved the day and we love her so much! Truly a superstar. We will share more behind the scenes soon
— Queen of the Ring (@QOTRmovie) May 22, 2025
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