Dwayne Johnson Speaks on Mental Health After Losing 15 Friends to Addiction and Suicide

Mental health struggles often stay hidden until loss forces the conversation into the open. Actor and former wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has done just that. In a recent interview referenced by Variety, Johnson revealed that he has lost exactly 15 friends over the past two decades to addiction and suicide.

The 52-year-old actor said the losses have deeply shaped how he views mental health, grief, and emotional support. His words struck a chord with fans because they highlight a reality many face quietly, watching people they love struggle, and sometimes losing them despite their efforts.

“I’ve Lost Exactly 15 Friends”: Johnson Opens Up About Personal Loss

Speaking candidly, Johnson shared that the number wasn’t an estimate. “I’ve lost exactly 15 friends over the years to addiction and suicide,” he said, calling it a devastating pattern he has witnessed repeatedly.

Dwayne Johnson reveals that he has lost 15 friends to addiction and suicide over the past two decades and says that “The Smashing Machine” taught him that “we're all going through sh*t.” pic.twitter.com/kVzm7y1yzF

— Variety (@Variety) December 18, 2025

He explained that these were people he trained with, worked with, and grew up around. According to Johnson, many appeared strong on the outside but were dealing with intense inner battles. “You just never know what people are going through,” he said, emphasising how easy it is to miss warning signs.

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The Smashing Machine Connection

Johnson told Variety the film evolved into "a love letter to the men and women who struggle, who have made it on the other side, and who didn't." Kerr's real-life morphine hell mirrors losses Johnson witnessed up close. "In a way, The Smashing Machine became more of a film," he added, turning personal pain into purpose. 

Johnson's Own Mental Health Journey

At 15, he pulled his mom, Ata, from suicide when she stepped into Nashville traffic. "We got lucky that day... and that ain’t always the case," he reflected in past shares. His 23-year-old depression hit after the Canadian Football League cuts: "I found that with depression, one of the most important things you could realise is that you’re not alone." Now dad to three daughters, he checks hearts first: "How’s your heart?"

Johnson on Why Talking About Mental Health Matters

Johnson said sharing his experience is not about numbers, but about starting conversations. “We have to talk about it. We have to check in,” he said, urging people to look beyond appearances.

He stressed that mental health should be treated with the same seriousness as physical health. According to him, asking someone how they’re really doing can sometimes be the most important step.

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Conclusion

Dwayne Johnson’s honesty sheds light on a painful reality many experience silently. Losing 15 friends to addiction and suicide is not just a personal tragedy, and it’s a reminder of how widespread and complex mental health struggles can be. By speaking openly, Johnson is helping shift the conversation toward awareness, empathy, and action. His message is clear: strength isn’t about silence, it’s about connection.

If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out to a trusted person or a mental health professional can make a meaningful difference.