AEW Honors Longtime WWE Director Kerwin Silfies Following His Passing
The world of professional wrestling is mourning the loss of Kerwin Silfies, a veteran director who spent decades behind the scenes at WWE. Silfies passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of impactful television production. His contributions were recognized during Wednesday’s episode of AEW Dynamite, where both talent and commentators paid tribute to his career and character. The tribute underscores the respect Silfies garnered across the wrestling industry, transcending promotional boundaries.
During the broadcast, Tony Schiavone, a commentator for AEW, acknowledged Silfies’ passing, recalling his time working with the director back in 1989. Schiavone described Silfies as “a great man and an even better director,” highlighting his ability to remain calm under pressure – a crucial trait in the fast-paced environment of live television production. SEScoops reported on the on-air acknowledgement.
The emotional tribute wasn’t limited to commentary. AEW wrestler Bryan Danielson, visibly moved, shared his personal experience with Silfies, recalling the director’s kindness and patience when he first joined WWE. Danielson admitted he lacked any prior knowledge of television production and credited Silfies with providing invaluable guidance and support during his early days. “He was exceptionally kind and very patient,” Danielson said, pausing to compose himself. “Sorry guys this is hard for me. I didn’t know anything about TV production when I got to WWE. Kerwin was so kind and helpful and I just wanna say our condolences go out to his family and friends. We love you man.”
A Career Spanning Decades at WWE
Kerwin Silfies began his tenure with WWE, then known as the World Wrestling Federation, in 1985. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a pivotal figure in the company’s television production team. AOL reports that Silfies remained with WWE until being furloughed during the COVID-19 pandemic and did not return after that period. His function shaped the presentation of some of the most iconic moments in wrestling history.
Silfies’ directorial credits include directing all episodes of Saturday Night’s Main Event during its original run in the 1980s, a cornerstone program that helped propel wrestling into the mainstream. He also directed numerous WrestleMania events, WWE’s flagship pay-per-view, and was at the helm for WWE’s inaugural broadcast in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant expansion into international markets. His expertise was instrumental in bringing these large-scale productions to life, ensuring a polished and engaging viewing experience for millions of fans worldwide.
Industry-Wide Respect and Remembrance
The outpouring of grief and respect following Silfies’ passing extended beyond AEW. Fightful noted that Triple H and Adam Pearce, both prominent figures within WWE, took to social media to express their condolences and share fond memories of working with Silfies. This widespread recognition speaks to the profound impact he had on those who worked alongside him.
AEW commentator Taz also shared his appreciation for Silfies on social media, describing him as a “super person & great director.” Taz recounted working with Silfies for many years, praising his passion for quality television production and recalling an instance where Silfies continued working through a heart attack, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his craft. Taz also advocated for Silfies’ induction into the WWE Hall of Fame, stating, “He belongs.”
A Legacy of Calm Under Pressure
Those who knew and worked with Kerwin Silfies consistently emphasize his calm demeanor and ability to handle high-pressure situations. In the world of live television, where unexpected challenges are commonplace, this quality was invaluable. His ability to maintain composure and produce quick decisions ensured smooth broadcasts and minimized disruptions, contributing significantly to the overall success of WWE’s programming. This characteristic was specifically highlighted by Tony Schiavone during the AEW Dynamite tribute.
Silfies’ influence extended beyond the technical aspects of television production. His willingness to mentor and guide newcomers, as exemplified by his support of Bryan Danielson, fostered a collaborative and supportive environment within WWE. He understood the importance of nurturing talent and empowering those around him, leaving a lasting positive impact on the careers of many individuals in the wrestling industry.
The tribute on AEW Dynamite serves as a testament to the respect and admiration Kerwin Silfies earned throughout his career. It highlights the importance of recognizing the contributions of those who work behind the scenes, shaping the entertainment we enjoy. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of television directors and production professionals in the world of professional wrestling.
As the wrestling community continues to mourn his loss, details regarding a potential memorial service or further tributes are expected to be announced in the coming days. Fans and colleagues alike are encouraged to share their memories and condolences online, celebrating the life and career of a true pioneer in sports entertainment.
Please share your thoughts and memories of Kerwin Silfies in the comments below. And if you found this article informative, please consider sharing it with your fellow wrestling fans.
