Controversy Surrounding Matt Zane’s Unauthorized Documentary on Wayne Static
The Cease-and-Desist Letter
Filmmaker Matt Zane has recently claimed to have received a cease-and-desist letter from the estate and family of the late Wayne Static, the frontman of Static-X. This letter arises amidst Zane’s plans to create an unauthorized documentary focusing on both Wayne and his late wife, Tera Wray. The families of both Wayne and Tera have expressed strong objections to the project, claiming it exploits a tragic chapter in their lives.
Zane’s Defiance and Crowdfunding Efforts
Despite the families’ disapproval, Zane remains undeterred. He has publicly stated that the cease-and-desist will not stop him from pursuing the project. “This won’t stop me,” he declared. “I’m ready and willing to take this as far as it goes. If it ends up in court, so be it. This movie will be made and released if it’s the last thing that I do.” This bold statement underscores his commitment to the documentary, which he has already started funding through an Indiegogo campaign.
Questioning the Legal Action
Zane has raised questions regarding why he is being singled out, noting that there are numerous other unauthorized documentaries about Wayne Static available online that have not faced legal repercussions. “If you go to YouTube right now, you’ll see multiple unauthorized documentaries about Wayne Static with hundreds of thousands of views. None of them were threatened with legal action,” he pointed out.
Background on the Documentary
Zane announced his plans for the documentary in November 2025, expressing that he had previously filmed pieces of the project while both Static and Wray were alive. His intentions are to fulfill what he describes as their wishes to have their story told in a specific way. “I know this is something Wayne and Tera wanted to get done,” he stated. “I feel I owe them this — to tell their story the way they wanted it told.”
Musical Contributions
As part of the documentary, Zane plans to include music that he and Wayne collaborated on in the past. He mentioned, “There’s about an EP’s worth of material Wayne and I recorded for a movie Tera was doing, but his label stepped in and stopped it.” He aims to finish this music with the help of A.I. technology, indicating an innovative approach to reviving their artistic legacy.
Family’s Statement Against the Documentary
The families of Wayne Static and Tera Wray have issued a joint statement vehemently opposing Zane’s project. They describe it as an “exploitation of this dark and tragic chapter in their lives.” They assert that they are not interested in any unauthorized portrayal of their loved ones, emphasizing their desire to protect the dignity and memory of Wayne and Tera.
Official Documentary in the Works
In addition to their disapproval of Zane’s documentary, the families highlighted that Static-X is currently working on an official documentary titled “Evil Disco – The Rise, Fall, And Regeneration Of Static-X.” This film is expected to provide a comprehensive look at Wayne’s life and legacy, which the family believes should take precedence over unauthorized projects.
Conclusion
The conflict between Matt Zane and the families of Wayne Static and Tera Wray raises important questions about artistic expression, the ethics of documentary filmmaking, and the legacy of public figures. As Zane pushes forward with his project despite legal warnings, it remains to be seen how this will unfold. Both the families’ desire to protect their loved ones’ memories and Zane’s commitment to telling their story reflect the complexities involved in navigating personal narratives in the public eye.
FAQs
What is the documentary about?
The documentary aims to explore the lives of Wayne Static and Tera Wray, focusing on their relationship and the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Why did the families issue a cease-and-desist letter?
The families of Wayne Static and Tera Wray issued the letter to prevent what they perceive as an unauthorized and exploitative portrayal of their loved ones’ lives and memories.
What is Matt Zane’s response to the cease-and-desist letter?
Zane has stated that he will not be stopped by the cease-and-desist letter and is prepared to take legal action if necessary to complete the documentary.
Is there an official documentary being made about Wayne Static?
Yes, the band Static-X is producing an official documentary titled “Evil Disco – The Rise, Fall, And Regeneration Of Static-X,” which aims to celebrate Wayne Static’s life and legacy.
