Dwayne Johnson has slammed Vin Diesel in an interview with CNN, claiming that the actor used manipulative tactics to try and get him to sign up for ‘Fast And Furious 10’, despite the fact that Johnson had already turned down the offer privately.
It was Diesel’s November Instagram post that caused The Rock to accuse him of scheming, in which he had implored Johnson to reconsider taking the role by playing on the action star’s emotions, bringing up how close he was to Diesel’s children and the promise Vin had made to his late co-star and friend Paul Walker.
Diesel Purposefully Tugged On Johnson’s Heartstrings By Bringing Up His Kids And The Late Paul Walker
Diesel wrote “My little brother Dwayne… the time has come. The world awaits the finale of ‘Fast 10.’ As you know, my children refer to you as Uncle Dwayne in my house.”
“There is not a holiday that goes by that they and you don’t send well wishes… but the time has come. Legacy awaits. I told you years ago that I was going to fulfill my promise to Pablo.” Johnson didn’t hide his distaste for the very public plea – Diesel has 77.5m followers – telling the interviewer “I told [Diesel] directly that I would not be returning to the franchise.”
“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.”
Johnson Claims Diesel’s Post ‘Was An Example Of His Manipulation’
“Vin’s recent public post was an example of his manipulation. I didn’t like that he brought up his children in the post, as well as Paul Walker’s death. Leave them out of it. We had spoken months ago about this and came to a clear understanding.”
However, the WWE legend was sure to make clear that he harbors no ill feelings towards the ‘Fast And Furious’ franchise, stating “My goal all along was to end my amazing journey with this incredible franchise with gratitude and grace.”
“It’s unfortunate that this public dialogue has muddied the waters. Regardless, I’m confident in the ‘Fast’ universe and its ability to consistently deliver for the audience… I truly wish my former co-stars and crew members the best of luck and success in the next chapter.”