How WWE’s CM Punk Landed His Role on Heels, According to Stephen Amell

CM Punk has ventured into acting beyond his wrestling career, with his latest appearance as Paul in four episodes of the TV series “Mayans M.C.” However, his standout role to date is playing Ricky Rabies in the wrestling drama “Heels,” where he starred alongside Stephen Amell and Alexander Ludwig. Amell recently discussed on the “Insight with Chris Van Vliet” podcast how Punk landed the role.

Initially, the part of Ricky Rabies wasn’t Punk’s. Amell shared that they had already filmed with a different actor and possibly an actress playing characters named Rickie and Vickie Rabies. However, due to complications from the COVID-19 pandemic, the original performer had to exit the project.

Amell praised Punk’s work on set, calling him a talented actor and reminiscing about their past match together, saying, “I enjoyed working with him in the ring, and if even a small part of that brought him back to wrestling, I’m happy about it.” He also noted Punk’s strong personality, acknowledging that Punk doesn’t tolerate any disrespect. Amell expressed his disappointment at missing Punk’s comeback in “AEW Rampage: The First Dance.”

Though “Heels” was canceled in 2023, the first two seasons are set to stream on Netflix starting Sunday, September 15. Former showrunner Mike O’Malley remains optimistic about the show’s future, hinting that strong viewership could lead Netflix to renew it for a third season.