Dwayne Johnson's Weight Loss Leaves Fans Stunned at Venice Film Festival

Hollywood heavyweight Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson caused a stir at the Venice Film Festival on Monday, September 1, not for his towering frame, but for his noticeably leaner look.

The actor stunned the crowd at the press photocall and premiere of The Smashing Machine, where he appeared dramatically slimmer—in both physique and presence—leaving fans and media buzzing.

Clad in a fitted blue shirt and black trousers, Johnson’s lean transformation quickly went viral as fans flooded social media with reactions ranging from playful to concerned. Some joked that “The Rock turned into a pebble,” while others debated whether the change hinted at underlying health issues or a sign of enhanced fitness.

Johnson’s weight loss, reportedly amounting to a dramatic 60 pounds (approximately 27 kg), was undertaken for his role as MMA legend Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine. By stepping into this demanding role, Johnson takes a bold departure from his signature action-hero persona.

The performance received a powerful emotional response from audiences. At the festival premiere, the film earned a 15-minute standing ovation, during which Johnson, director Benny Safdie, and co-star Emily Blunt were visibly moved.

The impact of the moment has fueled early Oscar buzz, signaling that this could be a pivotal turning point in Johnson’s acting trajectory.

Beyond physique, the transformation reflects a shift in Johnson’s career goals. At press events, he spoke candidly about breaking free from Hollywood’s typecasting and exploring roles with emotional depth and authenticity. This role marks a newfound creative direction for the actor known for blockbuster and action-heavy fare.

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