Dwayne Johnson dedicates ‘The Smashing Machine’ to friends lost to addiction, suicide
Johnson, who has previously spoken about his own experiences with depression, said the loss of friends deeply influenced the project.
Hollywood actor and former professional wrestler Dwayne Johnson has dedicated his latest film, The Smashing Machine, to the memory of 15 friends he lost to addiction and suicide over the past two decades.
In an interview with Variety, the 53-year-old actor said the biopic, which portrays the life of legendary UFC fighter Mark Kerr, reflects not only Kerr's journey but also the struggles of countless people battling mental health issues.
"In a way, The Smashing Machine is a love letter to the men and women who struggle, who have made it on the other side, and who didn't," Johnson said.
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Johnson, who has previously spoken about his own experiences with depression, said the loss of friends deeply influenced the project.
"Over the past two decades, I lost exactly 15 friends to addiction and suicide, who just couldn't handle the pressure," he added.
He also recalled facing depression at the age of 23 after failing to qualify for professional football and witnessing his mother attempt suicide when he was 15. He stressed the importance of support and encouraged people to talk openly about their struggles, reminding them that they are not alone.
Johnson has earlier spoken publicly about supporting those facing depression. In 2018, he said people should listen to loved ones and help guide them through difficult times, noting that many struggle silently.
The Smashing Machine is set to be released globally, while Johnson continues work on upcoming projects, including the live-action Moana, an untitled Jumanji sequel, and Fast X: Part 2.
