Venice, September 2025 – Former WWE superstar turned Hollywood icon Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has left audiences stunned with a dramatically slimmed-down appearance at the world premiere of The Smashing Machine during the 82nd Venice Film Festival. The actor received a 15-minute standing ovation, visibly moved as fans embraced his radical transformation.

Known for his bulging muscles and blockbuster action roles, Johnson is nearly unrecognizable in this intense biopic about MMA pioneer Mark Kerr. He added approximately 13–14 prosthetic appliances daily, along with voice coaching and visible physical changes, to embody the quiet strength of the real-life fighter.

Fans online marveled at his new, leaner physique, with some joking he looked “like AI-generated imagery.” The public reaction underscores the depth of his commitment to dramatic roles.

Johnson spoke candidly about breaking free from being “pigeonholed” as an action star, confessing, “There was a burning desire inside me asking, ‘What if there is more?’”. This uncharacteristically intimate role has sparked serious Oscar buzz, signaling a turning point in his career.

Weight transformation (approximate):

From around 300 lb (136 kg) to 240 lb (109 kg), shedding nearly 60 lb (27 kg) to fit the role

His co-star Emily Blunt and director Safdie praised the authenticity and emotional depth Johnson brought to the role.

This evolution signals a clear pivot in his career—from arena-filling blockbusters to intimate, critically acclaimed storytelling. His bold fashion choice—a custom Prada suit—further underscored this metamorphosis at the festival.