Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has opened up about his personal view of masculinity, emphasizing vulnerability as a key strength. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly discussing his return to the role of Maui in Moana 2, Johnson, 52, shared that true masculinity is rooted in emotional openness and the ability to seek help.
“Powerful masculinity is having the confidence to look inside and say, ‘This is what I’m feeling, and it’s okay,'” Johnson explained. He noted that asking for help, rather than being a sign of weakness, is actually a “superpower.” This mindset is a far cry from the traditional notions of toughness and stoicism often associated with men, and Johnson stressed the importance of accepting vulnerability.
Reflecting on his role as Maui, a character he first voiced in 2016’s Moana, Johnson drew parallels between the demigod’s boisterous nature and his own journey with vulnerability. “This guy who is very presentational, who puts on a show, who loves to hold court, sing, and dance… there’s a lot brewing deep down that he has to contend with,” Johnson said, referencing the struggles beneath Maui’s charismatic surface. “It’s like holding a ball underwater—eventually, it’s going to explode.”
Johnson’s words hit a personal chord, as the actor shared how growing up and facing loss often sent mixed messages about vulnerability. His portrayal of Maui, in both the original film and its upcoming sequel, offers an important lesson about the strength found in seeking support. “Even the strongest people need help,” he noted. “When you do finally ask for help, the universe and your loved ones have a way of meeting you halfway.”
Moana 2 sees Johnson teaming up again with Auli’i Cravalho, who voices the film’s titular heroine. According to Cravalho, the dynamic between Maui and Moana has evolved since their initial adventure. “They’re much more comrades now,” she said, noting that the power dynamic between the demigod and human has shifted. “He trusts her to make big decisions, and she trusts Maui to listen.”
The sequel will see Maui facing new challenges, with Johnson teasing that the character “starts off getting himself into trouble as he typically does.” However, the deeper theme of vulnerability—both for Maui and for Johnson himself—offers a powerful takeaway: masculinity isn’t about being invulnerable. It’s about embracing emotions and the courage to ask for help when needed.