Dwayne Johnson has been selected to receive the People's Champion Award next month during the 2021 People's Choice Awards for his contributions to the entertainment industry. After a successful career in WWE wrestling (where he was actually known as "The People's Champion" in the ring), Johnson set his sights on working in Hollywood. Since retiring from full-time wrestling in 2004, Johnson has gone on to become one of the biggest names in Hollywood, with roles spanning from high-intensity action flicks to beloved Disney films.
Johnson's acting accolades throughout the past decade and a half are extensive — Baywatch, Moana, and The Game Plan, to name a few. He became the face of the reboot of Jumanji, starring alongside Kevin Hart and Jack Black. He made his mark on the ever-popular Fast & Furious franchise. Just this year, The Rock kicked off Disney's live-action Jungle Cruise franchise, with the promise of sequels in the future. And most recently, he starred alongside Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot in Netflix's "Red Notice."
Ahead of the 2021 People's Choice Awards, Johnson has been announced by NBC Universal as this year's recipient of "The People's Champion" award. The actor previously won two People's Choice Awards in the past and has received more than a dozen nominations, but this award recognizes his extensive contribution to the entertainment industry as well as his philanthropic endeavors. Specifically, he's being recognized for his ability to raise spirits during times of uncertainty through his immersive films, as noted by NBCUniversal executive Jen Neal. The vice president of entertainment live events, specials & E! News said of Johnson:
"Dwayne is one of the most beloved actors of our time who has achieved unprecedented success throughout his career. During a period where there has been a lot of uncertainty, Johnson has displayed an uncanny ability to raise spirits and make people smile despite circumstances. His philanthropic efforts and international social media presence has made him a cultural leader and inspiration to many, making him the perfect recipient for ‘The People’s Champion’ award this year.”
The People's Choice Awards are set to air on NBC and E! on December 7 at 9 p.m. ET, and will take place in Santa Monica, CA. Johnson and his films are also up for a few other awards, with Jungle Cruise nominated for The Comedy Movie of 2021 and Johnson up for Male Movie Star of 2021 and Comedy Movie Star of 2021. In the TV realm, Johnson is also nominated for Male TV Star of 2021 for his role in Young Rock, a sitcom based on his own childhood and upbringing.
While Johnson has always been a source of comedy through his stint on WWE and his early endeavors in acting, he's solidified himself as a powerhouse in Hollywood who can take on a variety of projects with ease. He's a household name who has garnered so much popularity that some have even called for The Rock to run for president. For now, Dwayne Johnson's impact will be recognized with the illustrious People's Choice Award, which he now shares with stars like Tyler Perry, Pink and more.
Source: NBC Universal