Former WWE icon Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has acknowledged his aversion to therapy despite grappling with serious bouts of depression. The 53-year-old actor confessed to struggling with the demands of starring in major Hollywood films.
In preparation for his upcoming biographical film, Johnson has reflected on the parallels between himself and the troubled character Mark Kerr. The movie, titled The Smashing Machine, chronicles the tumultuous life of Kerr, a former wrestler and MMA fighter who battled addiction issues and endured multiple overdoses.
Portraying Kerr in the critically acclaimed film, Johnson depicts the downfall of Kerr’s once-promising career due to opioid addiction. Now 56, Kerr is in recovery and strives to motivate others to confront their inner struggles and break free from addiction.
Despite emotionally embodying Kerr on screen, Johnson admitted that revisiting past traumas was challenging for him, as he has a tendency to internalize his emotions rather than seek therapy. However, portraying Kerr prompted Johnson to question if there was a deeper, more profound meaning to his acting career.
In a candid interview with the Guardian, Johnson shared his realization that he could find fulfillment in acting beyond mere entertainment. He expressed relief at the departure from the commercial pressures of mainstream films and the newfound focus on the creative process.
While Johnson enjoys starring in blockbuster hits like Jumanji and Moana, he found The Smashing Machine to be a liberating experience that allowed him to explore a more profound aspect of his craft. The film provided a departure from the usual emphasis on box office success, emphasizing personal growth and artistic expression.
Johnson has previously spoken about his mental health struggles, recounting his battles with depression dating back to his school days. He disclosed his challenges with mental health during pivotal moments in his life, including his divorce in 2008 and subsequent episodes of depression in 2017.
Acknowledging the importance of support during tough times, Johnson shared his own experience of helping his mother through a suicide attempt when he was just a teenager. Reflecting on their shared journey to recovery, he emphasized the significance of extending compassion and assistance to those in emotional distress.
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