Penn State Wrestler Mitchell Mesenbrink Joins Gable Film
The national champion secured a role as Ben Peterson in the upcoming biopic about legendary wrestler Dan Gable.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Wrestling
Live Poll
Do you support athletes pursuing acting or other artistic roles during their competitive athletic careers?
Penn State wrestler Mitchell Mesenbrink portrayed the character Ben Peterson in the film Gable during the summer of 2026. The two-time All-American joined the production following an extensive callback process directed by Jon Greenhalgh.
Why it matters
The casting underscores the cross-disciplinary interest in the legacy of Dan Gable, whose career remains a cornerstone of the sport. The film seeks to highlight figures like Peterson who were instrumental in shaping wrestling history.
Dan Gable established a dominant record of 15 national championships during his career. He also secured an Olympic gold medal in 1972, a feat that anchors the historical narrative of the production.
The players
Mitchell Mesenbrink
He is a national champion wrestler at Penn State and a two-time All-American athlete.
Dan Gable
He is a legendary wrestling figure whose decorated career serves as the subject of the film.
Jon Greenhalgh
He is the director of the film Gable who oversaw the casting and production process.
Zack Esposito
He is a production assistant who provided support throughout the making of the movie.
Austin O'Connor
He is a contributor to the film production who assisted with the project.
The details
Director Jon Greenhalgh granted Mesenbrink creative freedom to develop his portrayal of Peterson during filming in Champaign, Illinois. The athlete earned the part after multiple callbacks, receiving behind-the-scenes support from Zack Esposito and Austin O'Connor.
Timeline
Mitchell Mesenbrink filmed his movie scenes during the summer of 2026.
Season Trajectory
The production follows the historical precedent established by the 1972 Olympic gold medal victory of Dan Gable. This film project documents the legacy of those athletic achievements and their lasting impact on the sport of wrestling.
Mesenbrink's involvement in the film occurred during his tenure as a Penn State wrestler. His performance as Ben Peterson marks a notable shift in his off-mat activities as he pursues future opportunities in the acting industry.
The takeaway
Mesenbrink plans to continue pursuing acting opportunities beyond his current collegiate athletic commitments. His experience in the Gable film suggests a growing interest among elite wrestlers in participating in biographical storytelling.
Further reading
For more on the local impact of university athletes, visit the Wrestling section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Onward State.
Live Poll
Do you support athletes pursuing acting or other artistic roles during their competitive athletic careers?
