Overview
- In The Hollywood Reporter’s Actors Roundtable published Jan. 2, Johnson said his move from wrestling to film was driven by a desire to grow and test himself.
- He recalled being very sick while shooting The Mummy Returns in the Sahara and realizing after a take that acting would be his lifelong pursuit.
- Johnson said he later grew frustrated by receiving similar roles and, about seven to eight years ago, began asking himself, “What’s more?”
- He cited accepting the role of real-life fighter Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine as the project that satisfied his push for a deeper dramatic challenge.
- Recent coverage also highlights mutual public support with Brendan Fraser, with Fraser crediting Johnson’s boost and Johnson saying Fraser’s success encouraged his choice to take The Smashing Machine.