Dwayne Johnson, known as “The Rock,” has surprised the public with his completely different look for the new biographical film “The Smashing Machine”, where he plays MMA legend Mark Kerr.
At the Venice Film Festival, the 53-year-old appeared much slimmer than usual, having lost around 27 kilograms for the role.
In addition to the physical transformation, the actor also shared a very personal side of his life.
Johnson said that although Mark Kerr was a sensitive and gentle person, he himself couldn’t draw inspiration from his father in that regard.
“My father wasn’t an inspiration when it came to sensitivity. He was homeless from the age of 13, and his capacity for love was very limited. This was the man who raised me,” Johnson said.
The actor recalled being estranged from his father, Rocky “Soulman” Johnson, at the time of his death in 2020, following a major argument during Christmas 2019.
Later, he expressed his regret in an emotional post, writing:
“I just wish I could hug him one more time, tell him we’re good, and that nothing else matters when they’re gone.”
Johnson’s new role has been met with enthusiasm and is considered one of his most authentic performances to date.