When Giants Walked Here

Raleigh’s Dorton Arena is famed the world over for its groundbreaking architecture. But its greatest untold legacy is its place in the history of a Southern mainstay: pro wrestling. This documentary chronicles the rise and fall of pro wrestling at the iconic venue, examining its impact on generations of fans, competitors, and the sport itself.

When Giants Walked Here is available to stream on pbs.org and the free PBS App, available on iPhone, Apple TV, Android TV, Android smartphones, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire Tablet, Roku, Samsung Smart TV, and Vizio.

Awards

2025 Emmy© Award - Program Promotion, 40th Annual Midsouth Emmy© Awards

CREDITS

Directed by: Cliff Bumgardner

Produced by: Cliff Bumgardner, Chris Lea

Shot by:

Corey Adams

Cliff Bumgardner

Brandon Clarke

Archival Footage: George Pantas

Illustration by: George Hage, Jonas Britt

Archival Imagery Courtesy:

NC State University Special Collections

The News and Observer

State Archives of North Carolina

Legal Services: Artifact Legal, L. Taylor Arnold, Esq.

Behind The Scenes

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Tell Everyone Around

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Center for Safer Schools