Dwayne Johnson Reflects on Troubled Childhood, Prioritizes Authenticity Over Audience Approval

Dwayne Johnson’s childhood was marked by instability and turmoil as his family moved between various locations across the United States. He reflects on his parents’ volatile relationship, revealing that his father, a professional wrestler, battled addiction while pursuing a precarious career. In contrast, his mother sacrificed her dreams to support his father and raise him.

Trauma and Career Transformation

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and Furious 7. However, in 2017, Johnson found the courage to confront his childhood experiences and began working on a project about MMA fighter Mark Kerr, who struggled with addiction during his time as a two-time UFC heavyweight champion.

Impact of “The Smashing Machine”

The film, titled The Smashing Machine, marks a significant milestone in Johnson’s career. He plays a deeply transformative role that allows him to explore his own vulnerabilities. For his work, he received his first Golden Globe nomination and is set to be honored with the Creative Impact in Acting Award at the 2026 Palm Springs International Film Festival on January 4. This recognition highlights his shift from typical action roles to more complex characters.

Collaborative Storytelling

In 2019, Johnson approached director Benny Safdie, eager to adapt Kerr’s story for the big screen. Safdie recognized Johnson’s potential and began writing the script. The collaboration was notable, as they both had personal connections to addiction which informed their storytelling approach.

Addressing Substance Abuse

• Johnson has lost 15 friends to addiction and suicide.
• Safdie also shared personal experiences related to addiction within his family.

A particularly impactful scene was created based on these shared experiences, capturing the co-dependent struggles depicted in the film. During rehearsals, Safdie expressed a desire for their characters to end up on the floor, emphasizing a raw, intense moment of vulnerability. Johnson appreciated this authentic representation, marking it as a unique opportunity to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

Emphasizing Authenticity

For Johnson, the role in The Smashing Machine represents a departure from the pressure to please audiences with likable characters. He relished the freedom of exploring the gritty aspects of human experience. This shift not only allowed him to embrace his past but also to deliver a more genuine performance.

Through this film, Johnson prioritizes authenticity over merely seeking audience approval, making it a standout moment in his illustrious career.