Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has reflected on his transition from WWE to Hollywood, explaining what first sparked his passion for acting and ultimately led him away from the ring.
Johnson made his film debut more than two decades ago, appearing as the Scorpion King in The Mummy Returns before headlining the spin-off that followed. Since then, he has gone on to become one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, featuring in major franchises, comic book films, and biographical dramas, while still making occasional appearances in WWE and serving on the board of its parent company, TKO Group Holdings.
Speaking during The Hollywood Reporter Actor Roundtable, Johnson explained that his move into acting felt almost predestined, but was also driven by a desire to challenge himself beyond wrestling.
“I think it was planned by something more powerful than me,” Johnson said. “I believe in the universe. But also I wanted to grow and wanted to challenge myself.”
Johnson recalled a defining moment while filming The Mummy Returns in Morocco, where he continued working through what he believed was food poisoning in extreme heat. Despite feeling unwell, the experience proved to be a turning point.
“So I caught that thing and it’s 110 degrees. I’m freezing, I’m wearing a blanket,” he said. “Stephen Sommers comes over, the director, ‘Hey, you okay?’ I’m like, ‘Yeah, I’m okay. Let’s do it.’ He calls action. We have our scene. When he yelled cut, I went, ‘This is what I want to do for the rest of my life.’”
Johnson also credited his wrestling background for helping shape his approach to acting. He explained that performing live in front of crowds sharpened his awareness and ability to adapt, skills that translated naturally to film.
According to Johnson, wrestling forced him to think quickly, read the audience, and adjust in real time, likening the experience to theatre. That foundation, he said, helped ease his transition into acting and prepared him for the demands of life on set.
How Many Movies Has The Rock Been In?
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has appeared in more than 50 films since making his movie debut in The Mummy Returns in 2001. His filmography spans action blockbusters, comedies, animated features, and biographical dramas, including major franchises such as Fast & Furious and high-profile solo projects.
Over the past two decades, Johnson has become one of Hollywood’s most prolific and bankable leading men, balancing film work with occasional returns to WWE and other business ventures.
