Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, a former WWE star, has acknowledged his reluctance towards therapy despite grappling with severe bouts of depression. The 53-year-old actor, known for his roles in Hollywood blockbusters, found the pressure of the industry challenging.
In preparation for his upcoming biopic, Johnson has shared insights into the parallels between himself and the troubled character Mark Kerr. The film, titled “The Smashing Machine,” delves into the life of Kerr, a former wrestler and MMA fighter who faced addiction issues and multiple overdoses.
In the critically acclaimed movie, Johnson portrays Kerr, whose promising career was derailed by opioid addiction. Now 56, Kerr is in recovery and aims to inspire others to combat their demons and break free from addiction.
Despite being honored in the UFC Hall of Fame in 2025 by Johnson, playing the lead role in the film resurfaced old emotions for the actor, who has a tendency to internalize his feelings. In an interview with the Guardian, Johnson confessed his reservations about therapy and his inclination to suppress emotions, a habit common among men.
Expressing his desire for more profound and meaningful roles, Johnson revealed his satisfaction with the less commercialized nature of “The Smashing Machine.” He acknowledged the personal resonance he felt with Kerr’s struggles and the relief of stepping away from the box office pressures.
While Johnson enjoys mainstream successes like “Jumanji” and “Moana,” he found the experience of working on “The Smashing Machine” to be liberating. The actor’s openness about his mental health journey, including his battles with depression after his first marriage ended in 2008 and in 2017, has shed light on the importance of seeking support during tough times.
In a candid interview, Johnson shared a poignant moment from his past when he saved his mother from a suicide attempt. Reflecting on the incident, he emphasized the significance of offering help and companionship to those struggling with mental health challenges.
By opting to portray complex characters like Mark Kerr, Johnson is exploring a deeper connection to his craft and using his platform to raise awareness about mental health issues and the power of resilience.