Buff studios develops ‘Who’s The Daddy?’ doc on Big Daddy
The project is being produced in association with Rainbow Trout Films
BUFF Studios is in the making of a documentary feature about British wrestling legend Shirley Crabtree, better known as Big Daddy. The project, titled Who’s The Daddy?, is being produced in association with Rainbow Trout Films and will be introduced to buyers at Sheffield DocFest, where BUFF is presenting its 2026 slate.
Deadline reported the film will explore how Crabtree, an ordinary Halifax sportsman, became one of Britain’s most recognisable TV personalities, transforming wrestling into prime‑time family entertainment and shaping pre‑digital celebrity culture.
Executive producer Emmanuel Anyiam‑Osigwe said: “Big Daddy was far more than a wrestling star. He was one of the most recognisable faces on British television at a time when audiences of all ages would gather around a single screen to watch shared national moments.”
He added: “Through Who’s The Daddy?, we want to explore not only the man behind the phenomenon, but also what his story tells us about fame, identity and the evolution of British popular culture before the digital age. We are delighted to be introducing the project at Sheffield DocFest and look forward to developing it with partners who share our ambition for the film.”
Sheffield DocFest runs until June 15.
