Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Makes a Bold Observation About Male Emotion

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson may be known for his presence on the silver screen, where he often plays physically tough characters, but the actor is praising a different kind of strength after a touching interaction.

The Jumanji star, who is currently on a press tour for his new movie, Red One, took to social media to share his thoughts on a recent fan experience.

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In a video posted online on Nov. 9, Johnson can be seen approaching a group of fans in London to take photos and sign autographs. But one young boy stood out to Johnson for his emotional reaction to the action star.

The boy, who identified himself as Ricky, teared up when Johnson greeted him. He told the Moana star that he’s “an actor too,” prompting Johnson to say “well, maybe one day you and I can work together.”

He continued, cracking a joke that Ricky “can just get all the money,” which brought a big smile to the youngster’s face. Ricky told Johnson which agency he works with, and said “call me” while miming a telephone call.

“I’ll call you? You’re sure?” asked Johnson, before shaking the 13-year-old’s hand and saying “let’s work together one day” and hugging Ricky. He then went over and grabbed fellow Red One actor J.K. Simmons and brought him over to introduce Ricky.

The Juno star greeted the boy, who told him he “loved” him in the Spider-Man franchise, as well as in Whiplash, for which Simmons won an Academy Award. “I told him one day we’re going to make movies with him,” Johnson told Simmons as Ricky beamed and got visibly emotional.

“I’m always really moved when young boys cry in front of me. Stops me in my tracks because, us boys never want to be emotional in front of people, let alone cry in front of grown men we look up to,” wrote Johnson about the experience.

“It’s in our DNA to hide emotions, so I’m proud of this kid — keeping his composure, keeping his sense of humor, keeping his manners - all while fighting back his tears 🥹 Very cool to meet you, Ricky and keep working hard young man. See you at the top one day,” he continued before thanking Simmons for “coming over to make this kid’s day. You’re a legend.”

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