Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has recently stunned fans with a dramatically slimmer physique, sparking widespread concern and speculation about his health. The action star and former WWE champion, known for his massive muscular build, revealed his weight loss is intentional and part of a dedicated transformation for an upcoming film role. Johnson explained his new look at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, putting to rest rumors about illness and emphasizing his excitement for this professional evolution.
What Prompted The Rock’s Weight Loss?
Johnson’s weight loss is a deliberate move for his next project, Lizard Music, directed by Benny Safdie. The film is based on Daniel Pinkwater’s novel and features Johnson as “the Chicken Man,” a whimsical and eccentric 70-something-year-old character whose best friend is a chicken of the same age. At the Toronto International Film Festival, Johnson shared:
“I’m so excited because I get a chance to hopefully transform again like I was able to do in ‘Smashing Machine.’ Can’t wait.”
He added that his current slimmer appearance is just the beginning, noting, “This is me slimmed down. I still have a long ways to go.” This isn’t the first time Johnson has altered his body for a role. He previously bulked up significantly to portray mixed martial artist Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, which recently premiered at the Venice Film Festival to critical acclaim.
Addressing Health Concerns and Past Issues
While Johnson’s weight loss is primarily for his new role, it has raised questions due to his past health struggles. Earlier in 2024, Johnson dealt with a persistent gut health issue that took years to diagnose and resolve. He discussed this challenge on The Mark Hyman Show, revealing that multiple rounds of antibiotics had disrupted his digestive system, killing off essential gut bacteria like Akkermansia, which protects the intestinal lining.
Johnson described his frustration before finding a solution:
“I’ve seen doctors and I can’t quite nail it. I can’t quite fix it. It’s in my digestion. I feel great—and that’s the odd thing—but I just can’t crack it.”
With the help of functional medicine specialist Dr. Mark Hyman, Johnson underwent a tailored treatment plan including probiotics, plant compounds, and a personalized gut-health shake. Within six to eight weeks, his symptoms improved significantly.
Johnson also faced a brief scare regarding his heart health after a cardiovascular workup showed what initially appeared to be plaque in an artery. Further advanced testing revealed it was merely an “anatomical thing,” and his arteries were in excellent condition.
Fan Reactions and Speculation
The public first noticed Johnson’s transformed appearance at the Venice Film Festival in late August 2025, where he promoted The Smashing Machine. Social media reactions were mixed, with some fans expressing concern and others offering support. Comments ranged from “He’s so lean” to “Yep had to do a double take.” Others joked about his new look, referring to him as “The Pebble” instead of “The Rock.”
Despite Johnson’s explanations, some, like WWE legend Kevin Nash, remain worried. Nash commented on his podcast:
“I’m worried about him. And the result, if you Google it, that he sat down with his cardiologist and he’s suffering from heart disease.”
Nash speculated that Johnson’s weight loss might be health-related, citing the actor’s family history of heart issues and the physical toll of maintaining extreme muscle mass. However, Johnson has consistently emphasized that his transformation is role-driven and part of his artistic journey.
Johnson’s History of Physical Transformations
Throughout his career, Johnson has repeatedly changed his body to meet the demands of his roles. For Black Adam (2023), he followed a rigorous diet and training regimen, consuming over 5,000 calories daily to achieve his superhero physique. Similarly, for The Smashing Machine, he spent up to four hours a day in makeup and prosthetics to accurately portray MMA fighter Mark Kerr.
Johnson’s willingness to transform physically reflects his desire to explore more complex and varied roles. He admitted to feeling nervous about stepping outside his action-hero persona but ultimately found the experience rewarding:
“It was very real. I had not experienced that in a very, very, very long time, where I was really scared and thinking, ‘I don’t know if I can do this. Can I do this?’”
The Bigger Picture: Health and Career Evolution
Johnson’s weight loss highlights a broader shift in his career towards roles that require deeper emotional and physical investment. While he remains a global icon known for his blockbuster action films, he is increasingly drawn to projects that challenge him creatively. His collaboration with directors like Benny Safdie signals a move into more nuanced storytelling.
At the same time, Johnson has become an advocate for proactive health management, especially for men. He has spoken openly about the importance of regular check-ups and addressing health issues early, inspired by the loss of his grandfather, WWE Hall of Famer High Chief Peter Maivia, who died of cancer at 45 after avoiding doctors.
Johnson’s own health journey, including his gut issues and heart scare, has reinforced his commitment to prioritizing well-being amid a demanding career.
Looking Ahead
As Johnson continues preparing for Lizard Music, fans can expect to see him in a entirely new light—both physically and artistically. His transformation underscores his dedication to his craft and willingness to evolve as an actor. While concerns about his health are understandable, Johnson has made it clear that his weight loss is a purposeful choice for his next creative challenge.
With The Smashing Machine already generating Oscar buzz and Lizard Music on the horizon, Johnson’s career is entering a new phase of innovation and depth.
