Follow us on Google News
Get the latest updates directly in your Google News feed
Many would believe the wrestling world now looks like a training ground for future actors, as evident in the likes of Dwayne Johnson, Roman Reigns, and John Cena. These actors have found their own niche in Hollywood, be it action films, comedies, or even dramas.
Johnson aka The Rock is widely recognized for his family-friendly movies such asJumanjiandMoana, while Roman Reigns became popular because of his appearance inFast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw. Of course, fans know John Cena fromThe Suicide SquadandBumblebee. Still, filmmaker Rian Johnson thinks another legend deserves the title of the best wrestler-turned-actor award.
RELATED:Dave Bautista Was Rejected From Appearing as a Zombie in Walking Dead For the Most Inane Reason Despite Offering To Do It For Free
Rian Johnson Calls Dave Bautista The Greatest Wrestler-Turned-Actor
While speaking withThe Atlantic,Knives OutdirectorRian Johnsondiscussed his process in writing Dave Bautista’s character in the sequelGlass Onion. The actor made his biggest movie debut in 2014’sGuardians of the Galaxyfilm, followed by other high-budget projects such asDune: Part OneandBlade Runner 2049. In the Netflix’s sequel, Johnson claimed Bautista proved his versatility:
“When I was writing [his character], I was picturing a scrawny dude who’s trying to overcompensate. When Bautista was brought up, I was instantly so smitten by the idea. I’ve been a very big fan of his dramatic chops as an actor.”
The famed helmer ofStar Wars: The Last Jedisaid Bautista is the “greatest wrestler-turned-actor” among the bunch of WWE legends who made their way into the acting profession, such as Dwayne Johnson,Roman Reigns, andJohn Cena. The filmmaker claimed:
“I absolutely 100 percent agree (that he’s the greatest wrestler-turned-actor), and I think somebody like [Paul Thomas Anderson] is going to give him a real part and is gonna look like a genius.”
He also praised the actor’s down-to-earth personality as well as his sincerity when it comes to delivering his performances. Johnson further added:
“As a person, Bautista is genuinely, immediately vulnerable when you meet him, and that’s what I was excited about. This is someone who has the physical trappings of someone who would play it big, but he actually brings sensitivity to the role.”
Dave Bautista’s other film credits includeSpectre(2015),Army of the Dead(2021), andKnock at the Cabin(2023).
RELATED:“This is a big motherf*cker”: Dwayne Johnson Was Seemingly Surprised After Meeting Logan Paul in Real Life
Dave Bautista Hates Being Compared To Dwayne Johnson And John Cena
In another interview withTampa Bay, Dave Bautista clarified he does not like being compared to other famous wrestlers-turned-actors. He firmly stated:
“Do not compare me to The Rock or John Cena. Everyone does it. Those guys are wrestlers who became movie stars. I’m something else. I was a wrestler. Now, I’m an actor.”
While both actors earn huge paychecks off their blockbuster films, Bautista does not considerDwayne Johnson’s acting very good. He remarked:
“Rock was, in a way, a movie star before he was even a movie star. There is something about him that’s really special. I’d never take that away from him. Would I consider him a great actor? F—k no.”
It seems that Bautista and Rian Johnson agree on the same thing. The actor revealed he does not want stardom that comes with huge franchises. Instead, he aspires to collaborate with award-winning directors and actors, and he wants “respect and credibility and education.”
RELATED:After Earning $800 Million Fortune, Dwayne Johnson Helped His Cousin Roman Reigns in His Hollywood Debut
Ariane Cruz
Senior Writer
Articles Published :3533
Ariane Cruz is a Senior Writer at FandomWire, majorly focusing on TV shows with over 3,000 articles published. Her love for pop culture and the creative arts fuels her passion to deliver engaging and informative stories. Her daily consumption of films, shows, and books keeps her energized for the day, along with her mission to serve as the bridge between fans and their favorite franchises.
