Amid the artistic splendors of Paris’ Grévin Museum, a new wax figure is eliciting mixed reactions, designed to emulate Hollywood’s multifaceted star and former WWE champion, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. This recent addition, while impressive, has found itself at the center of jest and genuine critique.
Now 51, The Rock, renowned not merely as a wrestling legend but also as the driving force behind cinematic successes like “Black Adam,” found himself amused by the playful ribbing his wax avatar received online. Taking the banter to Instagram, comedian James Andre Jefferson Jr. dished out witty remarks on the statue’s somewhat mismatched skin tone. He jestfully commented that Johnson’s figure seemed more akin to “a pebble,” or perhaps a touch of David Beckham. To add comedic flair, Jefferson likened The Rock’s wax look to a British royal, cleverly weaving in references to the recent “Little Mermaid” casting controversy.
In a sportive response, Johnson conveyed how Jefferson’s “Little Mermaid” jest had him rolling with laughter. However, being The Rock, he chose to see the silver lining, voicing his intentions to collaborate with the Grévin Museum to refine his wax replica. At the forefront of these refinements? An accurate portrayal of his skin tone. And, staying true to his signature charm, he hinted at a potential visit to the museum on his next Parisian escapade, musing about the possibility of sharing a drink with his inanimate twin.
The wax representation, an oeuvre of the skilled sculptor Stéphane Barret, had been a subject of anticipation leading up to its unveiling. Given The Rock’s global repute and distinct physique, Barret grappled with the challenge of mirroring such an iconic figure without direct interaction. He turned to a myriad of resources, from photographs and videos to observing men in local gyms to mirror Johnson’s build. One of the most intricate aspects of this project was the meticulous recreation of Johnson’s detailed Samoan tattoos, a task that demanded ten days of intense focus and research.
Barret’s passion for this undertaking was palpable. Through a press release, he shed light on the myriad challenges, with a particular nod to the difficulty of capturing The Rock’s signature smirk. “True realism,” Barret stated, “lies in animating the statue, making it resonate with every visitor.”
With the wax figure continuing to be a focal point, it stands as a reflection of both the celebrity’s widespread influence and the sculptor’s dedication. As modifications loom, the episode underscores the essence of camaraderie, responsiveness, and relentless pursuit of perfection.