What Happened to Dwayne Johnson After His Last Film Has Fans Talking

After wrapping up his latest film, Red One—a holiday-themed action-comedy released in late 2024—Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson surprised fans not just with box office success, but with a series of personal and professional shifts that have the internet buzzing.

In the weeks following the premiere, fans noticed a dramatic change in Johnson’s public presence. While he continued to promote Red One, which performed solidly worldwide, he started to open up about deeper personal matters. Johnson shared a heartfelt social media post thanking musician Jelly Roll for inspiring him through emotional challenges he faced while filming The Smashing Machine, an upcoming A24 drama where he plays troubled MMA fighter Mark Kerr. Many were stunned by his vulnerability, seeing a new side of the larger-than-life actor.

That vulnerability spilled into his home life too. A viral video showed Johnson letting his young daughters give him a hilarious full-face makeover before a Zoom call. Rather than brushing it off, he shared the moment online, calling it one of the best parts of his week. Fans praised him for being a “girl dad” who isn’t afraid to be goofy and affectionate—adding another layer to his already massive fanbase.

Professionally, Johnson’s choices are also shifting. After years of action-packed blockbusters, he’s moving toward more serious roles. His portrayal in The Smashing Machine has already sparked early Oscar buzz, and he’s set to star in another intense A24 psychological thriller, Breakthrough. Critics and fans alike are excited to see a more raw, dramatic performance from him.

Meanwhile, Johnson returned to WWE in 2025, reviving his “Final Boss” persona in a storyline with Roman Reigns, and is confirmed to reprise his role as Maui in Disney’s upcoming live-action Moana remake.

Altogether, these developments—blending authenticity, ambition, and family-first values—have fans talking. Dwayne Johnson isn’t just delivering action anymore; he’s showing emotion, depth, and transformation. From fatherhood moments to dramatic roles, The Rock is proving that even the biggest stars can evolve—and audiences are here for it.