Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has recently caught the internet’s attention after fans noticed changes in his physique, sparking discussions about his new leaner appearance.
From his days as a WWE superstar to his blockbuster movie roles and frequent appearances on talk shows, The Rock has cemented his status as a global icon. Known for his remarkable build, Johnson’s physique has always been part of his identity. However, his recent appearance at the Venice Film Festival had many fans talking about his noticeably slimmer look.
The 53-year-old attended the Miu Miu Women’s Tales event on Saturday, August 30, alongside Emily Blunt, his co-star in The Smashing Machine. Observers were quick to point out the significant change in his muscle mass.
“The Rock is currently going viral after losing a lot of muscle,” observed one Twitter user. Another mentioned, “He’s so lean,” while a third commented, “Damn, he’s half of what he was!”
A fourth person speculated: “First Batista now him. Is something going on in Hollywood that they aren’t telling us.”
Requests for comments have been made to Johnson’s representatives.
The actor’s transformation is in preparation for his role as real-life UFC fighter Mark Kerr in the upcoming A24 film, The Smashing Machine. Dwayne Johnson stars alongside Emily Blunt, who portrays Dawn Staples, with Bas Rutten, a well-known Dutch MMA fighter, appearing as himself.
In an interview with Variety, Johnson discussed taking on the role, saying: “Benny [Safdie] wants to create, and continues to push the envelope when it comes to stories that are raw and real, characters that are authentic and at times uncomfortable and arresting.
“I’m at a point in my career where I want to push myself in ways that I’ve not pushed myself in the past. I’m at a point in my career where I want to make films that matter, that explore a humanity and explore struggle [and] pain.”
During a press conference for the film on Monday, Johnson shared his enthusiasm for the new project.
“When you’re in Hollywood — as we all know, it had become about box office,” he explained. “And you chase the box office, and the box office can be very loud and it can become very resounding and it can push you into a category and into a corner.
“This is your lane and this is what you do and this is what Hollywood wants you to do.”