Dwayne Johnson revealed in a new Esquire interview that he had a cancer scare earlier this year while preparing for his CinemaCon press duties for “Jumanji.” Johnson said he discovered a lump on one of his testicles and saw a doctor before traveling to Las Vegas. According to the magazine, the physician initially thought it was likely epididymitis, an inflammation at the back of the testicle, but said cancer was also a possibility and ordered an ultrasound for the next morning. Johnson said he spent about 24 hours waiting for answers while still appearing in public, joking, and giving speeches. He later learned the issue was epididymitis, not cancer, and said, “I’m okay.”
The interview comes as Johnson returns to major studio blockbusters with Disney’s live-action “Moana,” in which he reprises his role as Maui, and with the continued “Jumanji” franchise. His comments also follow a major dramatic turn last year in A24’s “The Smashing Machine,” which earned strong reviews and put him in early Oscar conversation after its Venice Film Festival premiere. Johnson said he was disappointed not to receive an Academy Award nomination, but described the experience as motivating rather than discouraging. He said it “lit a fire” in him to get back to work.
Johnson also used the interview to reinforce his decision to avoid political endorsements and public political commentary. After saying in 2024 that he regretted endorsing Joe Biden in 2020 because it created division among fans, he told Esquire that he intends to keep his politics private and focus on storytelling and creativity. He said he has learned that the “main thing” for him is creating art, and that politics brings too much conflict and negativity.
On the subject of artificial intelligence, Johnson took a more open tone. Esquire described him as cautiously interested and even excited by the possibilities of AI, while acknowledging potential risks. Johnson said he believes people can either fear major change or face it directly and explore what it means. He framed that attitude as part of a broader willingness to adapt, learn, and engage with new technology rather than ignore it.
The Esquire cover story presents Johnson as focused on work, wary of political noise, and reflective about a health scare that briefly raised serious concerns. It also shows him balancing blockbuster entertainment with a growing interest in more challenging roles and emerging technologies.
