Post by : Meena Ariff

Dwayne Johnson, an internationally acclaimed actor and former wrestler, has consistently advocated for mental health awareness. His upcoming film, The Smashing Machine, is particularly meaningful to him as it addresses the battles many face against addiction and depression. The biopic chronicles the life of UFC icon Mark Kerr, whose journey was filled with remarkable achievements along with serious personal setbacks.

In discussing the film, Johnson emphasized how Kerr's story resonates with his own life experiences. “The Smashing Machine serves as a tribute to those who have fought through challenges, and to the lives impacted by those who didn’t make it through,” he remarked. Over twenty years, he has mourned the loss of fifteen friends to addiction and suicide, profoundly influencing his perspective. This loss, paired with his own mental health journey, turns the film into more than just work; it represents his quest to inspire and raise awareness for others navigating similar paths.

Johnson has openly discussed his battles with depression, recalling a pivotal episode in his life at fifteen when his mother attempted suicide. Later, at twenty-three, he went through a significant depressive episode after missing out on NFL opportunities. “One of the key lessons in confronting depression is recognizing that you aren’t alone in your struggles,” he stated, highlighting the importance of community and understanding in supporting those affected.

Recently, he has committed himself to destigmatizing mental health conversations. In 2024, he expressed on social platforms, “Everyone has their own demons, often hidden away. I've learned this through personal experience over the years.” Through his voice and creative projects, he aims to encourage open dialogues about mental health issues.

The Smashing Machine transcends being just a sports biopic; it symbolizes hope, resilience, and the human spirit. Johnson aspires for the film to entertain while inspiring viewers to seek help, support one another, and engage in conversations about mental health.

Fans can look forward to seeing Johnson in various future roles, including the live-action adaptation of Moana, a new installment of Jumanji, and Fast X: Part 2. While showcasing his range as an actor, The Smashing Machine remains a particularly heartfelt narrative of his personal commitment to mental health advocacy.

#Global News #Entertainment News