Full Breakdown
Grandmothers and Wrestler’s Unexpected Bond Sparks Film Project
7/28/2026, 2:05:02 AM
The Chance Encounter on a Las Vegas Flight
In April, four friends from Wales boarded a flight to Las Vegas to scatter the ashes of Rose Sulley’s late husband, Pete. The group—Lynn Crawford, Susie Matthews, Rose Sulley, and Christine Goodwin (80)—found themselves seated next to professional wrestler DeReiss Gordon, known in the ring as “Man Like DeReiss.” A mix-up over seat assignments led to a conversation that quickly turned into a friendship. Gordon invited the women to attend his match at WrestleMania, and they accepted, creating a story that quickly captured public attention.
The Principal Figures
- Lynn Crawford, 71 – One of the “Welsh nanas” traveling with her friends.
- Susie Matthews, 73 – Part of the close-knit group accompanying the trip.
- Rose Sulley, 74 – Traveling to fulfill her husband Pete’s final wishes; her name appears in the film’s working title.
- Christine Goodwin, 80 – The eldest member of the quartet.
- DeReiss Gordon – Professional wrestler who performed under the moniker “Man Like DeReiss.”
- Nick Barton – Film producer behind *Calendar Girls* and *The Full Monty*, now pursuing a movie adaptation of the encounter.
Film Development Plans
Producer Nick Barton, who previously collaborated with Disney and Buena Vista on *Calendar Girls* and *The Full Monty*, said the episode reminded him of those earlier films and described it as “extraordinary.” He believes the narrative has the potential to become a “brilliant and successful” movie and has begun working on the next production steps. Barton first learned of the story in May and promptly reached out to both Gordon and the Welsh grandmothers to discuss adaptation possibilities.
Outlook for a Potential Movie
While no production schedule has been announced, Barton’s involvement signals that the project is moving beyond the initial idea stage. The combination of intergenerational friendship, a wrestling spectacle, and a heartfelt personal journey offers a unique premise that could appeal to both domestic and international audiences. Further updates are expected as the development team refines the script and secures financing.
