Dwayne Johnson, now a major Hollywood figure, credits Brendan Fraser for helping him get started in acting. Their first encounter was during the filming of the 2001 movie, The Mummy Returns, which marked Johnson’s initial on-screen role.
Johnson recalled on the New Heights podcast that Brendan Fraser was already one of the world’s biggest stars at that time. He said,
The very first movie I ever did was a movie called The Mummy Returns. Brendan Fraser was one of the biggest stars in the world, as he is today,
highlighting Fraser’s established status early in Johnson’s career.
The Role That Kickstarted Johnson’s Film Career
Johnson’s part in The Mummy Returns was a minor but memorable character called the Scorpion King. Though his screen time was brief—about five minutes split between the beginning and end of the film—Johnson was thrilled to be cast. He recalled,
so excited to be cast in the film, [in] a small part called the Scorpion King,
and added that Fraser’s support meant a great deal to him as a newcomer.
Despite being a wrestling star, Johnson had never acted professionally before this project. He described Fraser’s attitude as welcoming and encouraging, stating,
Brendan Fraser, by the way, I always want to make mention of this. He was one of the biggest stars in the world. That was his franchise. I am coming in, I have never acted before, I’m excited. He could have easily said, ‘I don’t know if I want this wrestler.’
Instead, Fraser
embraced me. I love that man for that, and he helped kick off my career.
Dwayne Johnson’s Transition From Wrestling to Acting
Before his big-screen debut, Johnson was already a star in the wrestling world, known widely as The Rock. He first appeared in the WWF in 1996 under the name Rocky Maivia, honoring his father and grandfather. By 1998, Johnson had won his first championship and quickly became one of the Federation‘s most celebrated wrestlers.
Though new to acting, Johnson brought experience in performing for audiences and cameras, skills honed through wrestling. This transition helped him adapt smoothly to his early film opportunities, setting the stage for a successful shift in his career.
The Impact of The Mummy Returns on Johnson’s Career Trajectory
The Mummy Returns was a major box office success, and Johnson’s involvement, however limited in time, opened doors for him in Hollywood. Over the years since, Johnson and Fraser have kept a respectful and warm relationship, though they have yet to share the screen again.
In September, Fraser expressed excitement about Johnson’s upcoming work in the wrestling biopic The Smashing Machine, stating,
Dwayne, he’s a really great guy and it’s gonna be exciting to watch him emerge from this. I predict you’ll be seeing a lot more of him on these red carpets in the days to come.
This ongoing mutual admiration highlights the enduring bond formed on the set of their first film together.
Mutual Support as Their Careers Continue to Flourish
Following the success of Fraser’s comeback film, The Whale, Johnson publicly praised his friend. He remarked,
makes me so happy to see this beautiful ovation for Brendan… He supported me coming into his Mummy Returns franchise for my first ever role, which kicked off my Hollywood career. Rooting for all your success brother.
The encouragement between the two actors underlines the significance of early mentorship and camaraderie in shaping Dwayne Johnson’s acting career.
Looking Ahead
Dwayne Johnson’s start as the Scorpion King marked the beginning of an acting career that has grown into one of Hollywood’s most recognizable names. Brendan Fraser’s early support demonstrates how influential established actors can be in launching new talent, especially those crossing industries. As Johnson continues to expand his filmography and Fraser enjoys renewed acclaim, both remain important figures in entertainment with shared history that helped shape their paths.
