Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s aspirations for an Oscar nomination following his performance in “The Smashing Machine” have come to an unfortunate end. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the nominations for the 98th Academy Awards, and The Rock, despite gaining significant buzz and a Golden Globe nomination for his role, was not included in the list of nominees for Best Actor.
The biopic, which explores the life of mixed martial arts icon Mark Kerr, had generated excitement during its presentations at summer film festivals. Many believed that this could be The Rock’s breakthrough moment, allowing him to transition from his successful wrestling career to more serious acting recognition. Previous efforts, including films like “Southland Tales” and “Pain & Gain,” had showcased his range but did not secure him any awards.
The competition for the lead actor category this year is fierce, featuring notable nominees like Timothée Chalamet for “Marty Supreme,” Leonardo DiCaprio for “One Battle after Another,” Ethan Hawke for “Blue Moon,” Michael B. Jordan in “Sinners,” and Wagner Moura for “The Secret Agent.”
While The Rock’s journey for Oscar recognition has been challenging, his continued success in Hollywood and the admiration he garners from fans worldwide remain undeniable. The 98th Oscars will be held on March 15, and while The Rock may not be in the running, his contributions to the film industry continue to resonate.