Is there anybody in Hollywood more busy than Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson? The WWE Superstar-turned highest paid actor can't seem to let a month go by without a new project being announced. In just a few weeks, Johnson's animated feature, Moana will be hitting theaters, and he has Fast 8, Baywatch, and Jumanji set to be released during a four month period in 2017. Throw in Shane Black’s Doc Savage, and his role as Black Adam in Shazam, and it is almost unfathomable that the actor has any time to spare.
Dwayne Johnson's intimidating film schedule has not seemed to turn him off television, however. For the last two summers the actor has starred in and produced the HBO hit comedy, Ballers. In Ballers, Johnson plays Spencer Strasmore, a retired NFL player who is trying to make it in the world of financial management. And the actor is a natural fit for the role. After all, he did play college football at the University of Miami ("The U"). But if there is one profession Johnson likely knows more about than any other actor, it is professional wrestling. And now it looks like he will put that knowledge to work.
Variety is reporting that Fox has acquired a new comedy about the real life wrestling experiences of Johnson and former WWE writer, Brian Gewirtz. Johnson's Seven Bucks Productions will be producing along with Will Ferrell's Gary Sanchez Productions. Johnson had this to say about the project:
“This November will mark the 20th anniversary of my professional wrestling debut...I was 24 years old, putting in the hard work, making $40 bucks per match and had no clue of the long journey that lay ahead of me with characters and backstage stories so colorful you’d think there’s no way that can be true. The entertaining show that goes on in front of the crowd pales in comparison to the insanely entertaining show that goes on backstage. Brian and myself can’t wait to tell our stories.”
Gewirtz added of the show:
“Coming from Hollywood to the wrestling industry, with its intense backstage atmosphere and larger than life personalities, was a major culture shock. After working in the business for over 15 years, Dwayne and I had encounters and experiences that were unbelievable as well as unforgettable. We can’t wait to bring this project to the fans.”
With Johnson's numerous acting responsibilities, it is unknown whether he would actually star in the series himself. Regardless, the actor no doubt has an encyclopedic knowledge of the wrestling industry, and no shortage of humorous stories that will make for an engaging and hilarious hour of television. Further, professional wrestling has an extremely loyal fan base, and many would likely tune in to see the comedic backstage antics of the industry they love.
Whether we see Johnson actually star in this series or not, he can still be caught on the small screen in Ballers, which was renewed for a third season by HBO.
We will keep you updated with news regarding the new Fox comedy as it develops.
Source: Variety