Dave Bautista’s disdain for Dwayne Johnson comparisons reemerges as ‘Red One’ fights for bloated budget recoup

Dave Bautista’s recent comments about his acting career have reignited discussions about his approach to Hollywood, especially in relation to his WWE counterparts, like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. While both Bautista and Johnson successfully transitioned from wrestling to acting, Bautista has made it clear that he doesn’t want to follow in The Rock’s footsteps. In a memorable GQ interview, Bautista stated, “I just want to be a good f***ing actor. A respected actor,” emphasizing his dedication to the craft of acting over the pursuit of fame or box-office hits.

Bautista’s path in Hollywood has been defined by a commitment to versatility and collaboration with esteemed directors. Rather than taking on predictable action-hero roles, he has worked with top filmmakers like Denis Villeneuve (Dune), Rian Johnson (Glass Onion), and Sam Mendes (Spectre). His roles in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Dune: Part Two have reinforced his status as a serious actor. He has deliberately chosen roles that are nuanced and character-driven, contrasting with the blockbuster action films often associated with Johnson.

This distinction has led to many fans and critics praising Bautista for his range and depth, while Johnson’s career is often criticized for leaning heavily into action tropes. The success of Johnson’s films, such as Fast & Furious and Jumanji, is undeniable, but his recent projects, like the $250M Red One, received a lukewarm reception, leading some to question his versatility. Reports of Johnson’s disruptive on-set behavior have also raised concerns about his reputation in Hollywood.

In contrast, Bautista’s charm, humor, and humility have earned him a loyal fanbase, and he has even expressed interest in exploring genres like romantic comedies—something that challenges the tough-guy persona often associated with him. This willingness to step outside his comfort zone shows that Bautista is more than just an action star, and fans are eager to see how he will continue to evolve as an actor.