In 2020, the passing of WWE Hall of Famer Rocky Johnson from natural causes had a profound effect on his son, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. During an interview on the “PBD Podcast,” the wrestler-turned-actor candidly shared that his father’s sudden death came as a shock, especially since their relationship was strained at the time.
“My dad died unexpectedly, which I wasn’t prepared for,” Johnson reflected. “An embolism suddenly took his life, and it all happened so fast. I never had the chance to say goodbye. Here’s the kicker: just a month before he passed, we had the biggest fight we’d ever had, and there was no opportunity for reconciliation. It was really tough.”
Even with the unfortunate context of their relationship at that moment, Johnson expressed that his father’s death served as a wake-up call. He learned the importance of expecting the unexpected, recognizing that life can change in an instant for anyone. He also mentioned how his experiences with the Make-A-Wish Foundation have had a similar impact, prompting him to cherish his family even more.
Johnson has frequently discussed the challenges of his relationship with his father, describing it as one rooted in tough love. However, he feels that his dad was proud of him for carrying on their family’s legacy in wrestling, despite his initial reluctance for his son to enter the industry. Nonetheless, Johnson’s greatest regret remains not being able to properly say farewell to his father.