Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has surprised fans with a major weight loss transformation, making it one of the most discussed topics on the internet right now. The actor and former WWE superstar unveiled his new look at the 2025 Venice Film Festival while promoting his latest project, The Smashing Machine.
Dwayne Johnson spotted with new look at Venice film festival
The now viral moment happened at the Miu Miu Women’s Tales event at the Venice Film Festival on August 30. Dwayne Johnson stepped out in a stylish blue silk shirt covered in colorful sketches, paired with black trousers. The outfit clearly showed his slimmer physique, a far cry from his typically towering, muscle-bound frame. This new look served as the first major public glimpse of the physical dedication required for his new role.
The Rock later explained his motivations behind the weight loss during the festival’s press conference. He told The Hollywood Reporter that this change was a deeply personal challenge, stating, “This transformation was something I was really hungry to do.” He elaborated on a desire to break free from being pigeonholed, sharing, “I had been very fortunate to have the career that I’ve had… but there was just a voice inside of me… ‘Well, what if I could do more — I want to do more and what does that look like?’”
Fans surged online to share their reactions. Some couldn’t believe the photos, with one writing, “I genuinely think this is AI. But if it’s not, that’s some massive weight loss from The Rock.” Others quickly reminded fans that the transformation was for a role, with one comment reading, “He lost 60lbs for a movie folks, it’s called acting.. some folks used to do it.”
Many also pointed out that the shift reflects Johnson’s changing health priorities. One fan suggested, “He’s getting older and his fitness goals have changed. One, he probably got off anabolic and TRT. Two, at his age, heavy lifting and carrying excess weight – even if it is lean mass – doesn’t serve his overall health interests.”
The Smashing Machine follows Mark Kerr’s MMA career, his struggles with substance abuse, and his relationship with his girlfriend, played by Emily Blunt. Johnson’s latest body transformation was his first step into this dramatic role.
Originally reported by Devanshi Basu on Mandatory.com.
