Hollywood actor and former WWE superstar Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has opened up about his complicated relationship with his late father, Rocky Johnson, in an emotional revelation that has struck a chord with fans.
Johnson acknowledged in an interview at the Venice Film Festival that although he held his father’s legacy in the highest regard, their relationship was frequently tense.
“I don’t think my dad was an inspiration in terms of his tenderness,” Dwayne said during a press conference at the film festival.
“It wasn’t really my dad. He was homeless by the time he was 13, so his capacity for love was very limited, and that’s the man that raised me.”
The two had a tense relationship and were at odds for a large portion of Dwayne’s adult life. After arguing on the phone in December 2019, they became estranged and had not made amends when Rocky passed away in 2020.
A week earlier, the talented Fast & Furious series star celebrated his late father’s 80th birthday by posting an emotional social media message to him.
“Happy Heavenly Birthday, Dad,” he began in the caption. “My dad’s birthday was yesterday, and I thought about him. A lot. I had a good amount of ‘I wonder if…’ thoughts about him and our relationship.”
“He raised me with a tough and complex love. But at least I had love, ya know?” he continued. “I know a lot of men in my life who never had their father’s love at all. It’s hard to reconcile stuff with your dad when he’s no longer here but nonetheless, regardless of challenges or any struggle, my dad was a ‘life adapter,’ and he taught me to be the same. Work hard and adapt.”
“I’ll always be grateful for that lesson,” he added. “Happy Birthday, Soulman up there in heaven. You were never shy, so stop by and say hello every once in a while.”
