Dwayne Johnson is facing heavy criticism on social media for his decision to remain completely silent about politics going forward.
The Blockbuster actor is catching serious flak online after revealing to Esquire magazine earlier this month that he will no longer speak publicly about his political beliefs.
The attitude has ruffled feathers within Hollywood, with Star Trek icon George Takei takes to Threads to criticize Johnson’s new outlook, writing that silence is complicity.
Stand by me Actor Wil Wheaton also joined the backlash, responding that it was so disappointing to find out he’s such a coward.
The wrestling legend-turned-actor is currently on a global press tour for Disney’s live-action Moana film, previously signaled his retreat from political commentary during an interview with Fox News in 2024.
At the time, Johnson admitted he deeply regretted endorsing Joe Biden for president in 2020 because the move had caused widespread division among his fan base.
He explained that his aim is to bring the country together, adding that there will be no more endorsements and that at his level of influence he intends to keep his politics to himself and between him and the ballot box.
Expanding on his newfound aversion to political talk in his latest Esquire interview, Johnson emphasized that his experience has taught him that he needs, not wants, to keep his focus entirely on his creative output.
He explained that what he runs towards when he swings his legs out of bed in the morning is to create art and storytelling.
While noting that there are moments when nothing is allowed and he is happy to admit when he is wrong, Johnson expressed deep disgust with the current political environment.
