Dwayne Johnson is opening up about his decision not to be involved in the upcoming “Fast & Furious” installment.
In an interview with CNN, the 49-year-old actor addressed an Instagram post previously published by his co-star Vin Diesel in November.
Diesel used the public platform to plead with Johnson to rejoin the franchise.
The Rock admitted that he was “surprised” by the post and called it a classic “example of his manipulation.”
"This past June, when Vin and I actually connected not over social media, I told him directly — and privately — that I would not be returning to the franchise,” he explained.
He continued: “I was firm yet cordial with my words and said that I would always be supportive of the cast and always root for the franchise to be successful, but that there was no chance I would return. I privately spoke with my partners at Universal as well, all of whom were very supportive as they understand the problem."
The “Jungle Cruise” actor also explained that he wasn’t impressed that Diesel “brought up his children in the post” along with Paul Walker’s death to get his point across and stir up an emotional response.
Related
"We had spoken months ago about this and came to a clear understanding. My goal all along was to end my amazing journey with this incredible “Fast & Furious” franchise with gratitude and grace,” he admitted.
Johnson is referring largely to Diesel’s post in which he urged “his little brother Dwayne” to join the final installment of the long running franchise.
“The world awaits the finale of Fast 10. As you know, my children refer to you as Uncle Dwayne in my house. There is not a holiday that goes by that they and you don't send well wishes... but the time has come,” he wrote.
Related
In November, Diesel also called out Johnson on Instagram, writing: “I say this out of love... but you must show up — do not leave the franchise idle. You have a very important role to play. Hobbs can't be played by no other.”
Fans commenting on Diesel's post seemed on board with the olive branch, with many sharing that they hope to see Johnson return for a finale.
In July, Johnson discussed his rocky experience working with Diesel.
"Vin and I had a few discussions, including an important face-to-face in my trailer," the former WWE star said. "And what I came to realize is that we have a fundamental difference in philosophies on how we approach moviemaking and collaborating. It took me some time, but I'm grateful for that clarity. Whether we work together again or not."
Related
PEOPLE reports that the feud between Johnson and Diesel first bubbled to the surface in 2016 while they worked on the eight film, “The Fate of the Furious."
Johnson recently appeared in Netflix’s film “The Red Notice.” He is gearing up for the holiday film “Red One,” gunning for the role of James Bond, and readying a sequel to “Jungle Cruise.”
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign up and follow Audacy
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram