Dwayne Johnson, known for his role as Agent Hobbs in the Fast & Furious franchise, announced his decision to leave the series after the latest film. Vin Diesel, his co-star, publicly urged him to return for the upcoming 2023 installment in an Instagram post last month.
Vin Diesel wrote, “I swore that we would reach and manifest the best Fast in the finale that is 10! I say this out of love… but you must show up. Do not leave the franchise idle you have a very important role to play. Hobbs can’t be played by no other. I hope that you rise to the occasion and fulfill your destiny.”
However, Johnson found Diesel’s public request manipulative and expressed his disappointment in an interview with CNN. Johnson revealed that he had previously informed Diesel privately that he would not be returning to the franchise.
Johnson stated, “I was firm yet cordial with my words and said that I would always be supportive of the cast and always root for the franchise to be successful, but that there was no chance I would return.”
Notably, Johnson was also upset that Diesel brought up his children and Paul Walker’s death in the public post, as they had already discussed the matter months ago and reached a clear understanding.
In an effort to end the conflict positively, Johnson wished his former co-stars and crew members success in the future, expressing his gratitude for his time with the Fast & Furious franchise.