The documentary was directed by Kaufman's girlfriend, Lynne Margulies, and Joe Orr. Kaufman himself began work with Margulies and Orr on the film in 1983, shortly before he was diagnosed with cancer. Margulies and Orr, at Kaufman's request, finished I'm from Hollywood after the performer's death. Comedy Central aired the documentary numerous times during the late 1990s wrestling boom.