In a heartfelt moment that has quickly gone viral, Dwayne Johnson popularly referred to as The Rock, has publicly thanked Brendan Fraser for taking a massive chance on him more than two decades ago, a decision that launched Johnson’s blockbuster acting career.
The emotional exchange took place during a joint interview promoting their upcoming projects, when Johnson turned to Fraser and delivered an unscripted tribute to the man who gave him his very first major film role as the Scorpion King in 2001’s ”The Mummy Returns”.
WATCH VIDEO HERE: https://x.com/variety/status/1998033573694095506?s=46&t=TSX2QYxy4xiDm3afsAMwMw
Looking directly into Fraser’s eyes, Johnson said: “You took a risk on me… who had never acted… years later, you & I are sitting here… I want to thank you for really changing my life.” The usually unflappable Johnson visibly fought back tears as the words left his mouth, pausing several times to compose himself.
At that time, Johnson was known exclusively as “The Rock,” a charismatic WWE superstar and Universal Pictures preparing for The Mummy Returns, with the director Stephen Sommers in need of someone physically impressive to play the ancient warrior-king known as the Scorpion King. Fraser immediately told the producers: “That’s the guy.”
Johnson’s scenes, though limited as they were, stole the show for many viewers, and the character was popular. Twenty-four years and dozens of blockbusters later —from the *Fast & Furious* and *Jumanji* franchises to producing hits under his Seven Bucks banner, Johnson has become the highest-paid actor in Hollywood multiple times over.
During the interview, Johnson said: “I was this kid from wrestling who talked a big game on the mic, but when it came to acting? I had no idea what I was doing. Brendan didn’t have to stick his neck out for me. He was the star. He could’ve stayed quiet. But he saw something and he fought for me to get that role. That one yes changed the entire trajectory of my life and my family’s life.”
Fraser, replied, “I just thought you looked cool with the little skirt and the gold armbands, man.” But the emotion in the room was undeniable.
Johnson wrapping up his thank-you, he added: “So yeah, Brendan Fraser… thank you, brother. From the bottom of my heart. You changed everything.”