The Rock Took Huge Pay Cut for “The Smashing Machine” to Support Co-Stars

The Rock shocked Hollywood with his decision to take a massive pay cut for his passion project The Smashing Machine. Known as one of the most bankable stars in the world, The Rock usually commands upwards of $20 million per film—but according to Deadline, he accepted just $4 million for this one.

The report also revealed that Johnson gave a portion of his reduced paycheck to co-star Emily Blunt and to Mark Kerr, the real-life MMA legend whose story the film is based on. It’s a dramatic departure from his usual blockbuster deals, but Johnson says the experience of making the movie was worth far more than the money.

Speaking on Instagram after the film’s underwhelming $6 million opening weekend—the lowest for a Rock-led movie—Johnson shared his perspective on the project.

“From deep in my grateful bones, thank you to everyone who has watched The Smashing Machine.”

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He reflected on what he could control while making the film, despite the box office disappointment.

“In our storytelling world, you can’t control box office results — but what I realized you can control is your performance, and your commitment to completely disappear and go elsewhere. And I will always run to that opportunity. Truth is this film has changed my life.“

The Smashing Machine opened on October 3 with a $50 million budget but came in behind two other major releases, including Taylor Swift’s concert film and One Battle After Another. While it’s Johnson’s smallest theatrical opening to date, critics have praised his performance, and the movie has earned a “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

By taking a steep pay cut and sharing his salary, Johnson made it clear that The Smashing Machine wasn’t about the paycheck—it was about honoring Mark Kerr’s story and transforming himself as an actor.