Former WWE icon Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has acknowledged his reluctance towards therapy despite facing intense periods of depression. The 53-year-old actor struggled with the demands of starring in major Hollywood productions.
In anticipation of his upcoming biopic, Johnson has drawn parallels between himself and the troubled character Mark Kerr. The film, “The Smashing Machine,” explores the life of Kerr, a former wrestler and MMA fighter who grappled with addiction issues and survived multiple overdoses.
In the highly praised movie, Johnson embodies Kerr, whose career was derailed by opioid addiction. Kerr, now 56, is focused on recovery and aims to inspire others to confront their inner demons and break free from addiction.
Johnson emotionally inducted Kerr into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2025. However, portraying the lead role in the biopic resurfaced old wounds for the actor, who has a tendency to internalize his emotions, a common trait among many men, acknowledging it as an unhealthy coping mechanism.
In an interview with The Guardian, Johnson shared his realization that he could find deeper meaning in his acting career beyond mere enjoyment. While he has enjoyed success with films like “Jumanji” and “Moana,” portraying Kerr in “The Smashing Machine” provided a liberating experience, shifting the focus from financial gains to personal fulfillment.
The renowned actor has been candid about his mental health struggles, discussing his battles with depression on The Pivot Podcast. Johnson revealed that he encountered depression after leaving school, a sentiment he revisited during his divorces in 2008 and 2017.
Reflecting on his personal experiences, Johnson emphasized the importance of seeking support during tough times, citing the pivotal role friends played in helping him navigate his mental health challenges.
Additionally, Johnson disclosed a significant event from his past, recounting how he intervened to save his mother from a suicide attempt when he was just 15 years old. This incident underscored the need to be attuned to others’ struggles and provide assistance to those in distress.
As Johnson continues to share his journey with mental health, his openness and vulnerability serve as a source of inspiration for many facing similar struggles.