Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, long celebrated for his Herculean physique and commanding presence, has sparked a wave of concern and curiosity among fans after appearing noticeably slimmer at recent public events and on social media. The 53-year-old Hollywood superstar and former WWE champion, whose chiseled muscles and larger-than-life persona have defined his career, shocked attendees at the 2025 Venice Film Festival with a leaner frame that prompted viral reactions across platforms like X and Instagram. The transformation, which some estimate involved shedding nearly 60 pounds from his iconic 300-pound build, has led to a mix of admiration, speculation, and lighthearted quips, with one fan joking on X, “From The Rock to The Pebble 😅.” But behind the memes lies a deeper story of health, discipline, and a bold career pivot.

Johnson’s appearance at the Venice Film Festival, where he promoted his upcoming film The Smashing Machine, was a focal point for fans and media alike. Clad in a light blue silk button-down shirt and tailored black trousers, the actor looked strikingly different from the muscle-bound action hero known for roles in Fast & Furious and Jumanji. Social media erupted with comments, as fans noted the reduction in his muscle mass and speculated about the reasons behind it. Some expressed concern, with one X user writing, “I hope he’s not sick because he looks very thin.” Others praised his dedication, with comments like, “The Smashing Machine is setting the bar high. An unrecognizable Dwayne Johnson looks to give the best performance of his career.” The contrast between his current look and his previously towering physique was undeniable, sparking debates about whether this change was purely for a role or part of a larger personal transformation.

The answer lies in Johnson’s latest project, The Smashing Machine, a biographical drama directed by Benny Safdie and produced by A24. In the film, Johnson portrays Mark Kerr, a two-time UFC heavyweight champion whose life was marked by both athletic triumphs and personal struggles, including painkiller addiction. To embody Kerr authentically, Johnson underwent a dramatic physical transformation, reportedly dropping from 300 pounds to around 240 pounds. This required not only shedding muscle mass but also adopting prosthetics and a wig to capture Kerr’s appearance. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter at the festival, Johnson revealed his motivation: “This transformation was something I was really hungry to do. I’ve been fortunate to have the career I’ve had, but there was a voice inside me that said, ‘What if I could do more?’” The role marks a departure from the action blockbusters that made him a global star, signaling his ambition to be recognized as a serious dramatic actor.

Beyond the demands of the role, Johnson’s transformation also stems from a focus on health. In a June appearance on The Dr. Mark Hyman Show, he discussed working with the functional medicine physician to address gut-related issues caused by years of antibiotics, which had damaged his intestinal lining. “We rehabbed your gut,” Dr. Hyman explained, detailing a regimen that likely contributed to Johnson’s leaner physique. Sources close to the actor have also noted that he shifted from a 6,000-calorie diet to a high-protein, low-sugar plan, incorporating intermittent fasting and portion control. His workouts, once centered on building mass, now emphasize fasted cardio, HIIT circuits, and mobility exercises to enhance agility and endurance. This overhaul wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about longevity and feeling “smarter, not weaker,” as Johnson put it.

The internet’s reaction has been a mix of humor and concern, with some users speculating about unverified health issues or the use of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic. However, Johnson’s team has dismissed such claims, emphasizing that his transformation was a deliberate choice for both his role and personal well-being. The film’s reception at Venice, where it earned a 15-minute standing ovation, suggests that his hard work has paid off. Co-star Emily Blunt described seeing Johnson lose himself in the role as “spooky,” while early reviews have fueled Oscar buzz, positioning him as a potential Best Actor contender.

For Johnson, this transformation is more than physical. It’s a testament to his willingness to evolve, both as an actor and as a person. Fans may miss the hulking figure of “The Rock,” but the leaner, more agile Johnson is proving that he’s ready to take on new challenges. As he continues to share glimpses of his journey on social media, from gym sessions to heartfelt posts about his family, it’s clear that this is not just a phase but a new chapter for a star who refuses to be typecast.