Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has had a heartwarming reunion with his former co-star from The Mummy, Brendan Fraser, at the 2023 Academy Awards. Fraser won Best Actor in a Leading Role for his portrayal of a reclusive, overweight English teacher in The Whale.
The heartwarming clip below shows the two actors sharing a special moment together, where DJ acknowledges Fraser for welcoming him ‘with open arms’ in his first movie role in the 2001 sequel The Mummy Returns. While it’s hard to remember a time when Johnson wasn’t famous, he expressed his gratitude to Fraser for helping him break through Hollywood.
Johnson shared his excitement on Instagram, saying: “Very cool full circle moment here with my long-time buddy Brendan Fraser and his sons. My very first film of my Hollywood career was The Mummy Returns, which Brendan starred in.”
Johnson also thanked Fraser for his support, despite critics and cynics betting against him at the time. The Rock expressed his appreciation for the kindness that Fraser had shown him: “Brendan welcomed me with open arms and was very supportive. I never forget kind people.”
The pair’s friendship has been enduring over the years, and Johnson has always been grateful for Fraser’s role in his career. After The Whale received a six-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival last year, Johnson thanked his old friend on Twitter, saying: “Man, this makes me so happy to see this beautiful ovation for Brendan. He supported me coming into his Mummy Returns franchise for my first-ever role, which kicked off my Hollywood career. Rooting for all your success brother and congrats to my bud Darren Aronofsky. #TheWhale.”
Fraser’s performance in The Whale has been lauded by critics and audiences alike, and he beat out other contenders such as Austin Butler, Colin Farrell, Paul Mescal, and Bill Nighy to win the Oscar. The Whale tells the story of Charlie, a reclusive, overweight English teacher who tries to reconnect with his seventeen-year-old daughter. Fraser’s stunning performance has earned him critical acclaim and recognition from his peers.
It is heartening to see such a beautiful moment of friendship and mutual support between two actors who have shared a long-standing connection in the industry. As Johnson rightly pointed out, it is important to remember those who have supported us along the way, and to express our gratitude for their kindness. Congratulations to Brendan Fraser on his Oscar win, and to Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson for his enduring success in Hollywood.
