Dwayne Johnson is a household name in the entertainment industry—a name that is widely recognized worldwide. From wrestling to acting, the actor, businessman, and professional wrestler has built an impressive empire worth $800 million. Yet, despite his achievements, there is one regret that still haunts him to this day: not being able to say goodbye to his father before he passed away.
Like us, The Rock, 51, has always considered his dad to be a role model for his professional wrestling career. In contrast, they had an uneven personal relationship that got better and stronger right up until Johnson’s father passed away. With over 390 million followers on Instagram, The Scorpion King actor made a public confession about not being able to say goodbye to his father.
Dwayne Johnson in Ballers Season 5
His father, Rocky Johnson, died on January 15, 2020, before they could make amends for their “complicated relationship”.
SUGGESTEDThe Only Thing...
Like us, The Rock, 51, has always considered his dad to be a role model for his professional wrestling career. In contrast, they had an uneven personal relationship that got better and stronger right up until Johnson’s father passed away. With over 390 million followers on Instagram, The Scorpion King actor made a public confession about not being able to say goodbye to his father.
Dwayne Johnson in Ballers Season 5
His father, Rocky Johnson, died on January 15, 2020, before they could make amends for their “complicated relationship”.
SUGGESTEDThe Only Thing...
- 3/1/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
NBC has canceled “Grand Crew” after two seasons and “Young Rock” after three seasons.
“Grand Crew,” which comes from Phil Augusta Jackson and Dan Goor (“Brooklyn Nine-Nine”), followed friends Noah, Nicky, Sherm, Anthony, Wyatt and Fay as they navigated the ups and downs of life and unpacked it all at their favorite wine bar.
The cast includes Echo Kellum, Nicole Byer, Aaron Jennings, Justin Cunningham, Carl Tart and Grasie Mercedes. The hangout comedy is produced by Universal Television, with Jackson and Goor serving as executive producers.
Also Read:
TCA Cancels 2023 Summer Tour Due to Ongoing WGA Strike
The third season of “Young Rock” centers on Dwayne Johnson as he navigates his meteoric rise from unknown wrestler to Hollywood superstar. Told through stories from his own life, the show follows the actor’s journey to the top and the colorful characters that keep him grounded.
In addition to Johnson, the series stars Joseph Lee Anderson,...
“Grand Crew,” which comes from Phil Augusta Jackson and Dan Goor (“Brooklyn Nine-Nine”), followed friends Noah, Nicky, Sherm, Anthony, Wyatt and Fay as they navigated the ups and downs of life and unpacked it all at their favorite wine bar.
The cast includes Echo Kellum, Nicole Byer, Aaron Jennings, Justin Cunningham, Carl Tart and Grasie Mercedes. The hangout comedy is produced by Universal Television, with Jackson and Goor serving as executive producers.
Also Read:
TCA Cancels 2023 Summer Tour Due to Ongoing WGA Strike
The third season of “Young Rock” centers on Dwayne Johnson as he navigates his meteoric rise from unknown wrestler to Hollywood superstar. Told through stories from his own life, the show follows the actor’s journey to the top and the colorful characters that keep him grounded.
In addition to Johnson, the series stars Joseph Lee Anderson,...
- 6/9/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
“Young Rock” and “Grand Crew” have both been canceled at NBC.
Based on the life of Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson, “Young Rock” followed Dwayne as he rose from childhood to a wrestling career to Hollywood stardom. Johnson starred as himself alongside Joseph Lee Anderson as Rocky Johnson, Stacey Leilua as Ata Johnson, Ana Tuisila as Lia Maivia, Adrian Groulx as 10 to 14-year-old Dwayne aka Dewey, Bradley Constant as 15 to 17-year-old Dwayne, Uli Latukefu as 18 to 26-year-old, Fasitua Amosa as Sika Anoa’i, John Tui as Afa Anoa’i and Matthew Willig as André the Giant.
“Young Rock” premiered in February of 2021 and concluded its third season in February of this year. The series was co-created by Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang, who executive produced alongside Johnson, Dany Garcia, Jennifer Carreras, Hiram Garcia and Brian Gewirtz. Universal Television served as the studio in association with Seven Bucks Productions and Fierce Baby Productions.
Based on the life of Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson, “Young Rock” followed Dwayne as he rose from childhood to a wrestling career to Hollywood stardom. Johnson starred as himself alongside Joseph Lee Anderson as Rocky Johnson, Stacey Leilua as Ata Johnson, Ana Tuisila as Lia Maivia, Adrian Groulx as 10 to 14-year-old Dwayne aka Dewey, Bradley Constant as 15 to 17-year-old Dwayne, Uli Latukefu as 18 to 26-year-old, Fasitua Amosa as Sika Anoa’i, John Tui as Afa Anoa’i and Matthew Willig as André the Giant.
“Young Rock” premiered in February of 2021 and concluded its third season in February of this year. The series was co-created by Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang, who executive produced alongside Johnson, Dany Garcia, Jennifer Carreras, Hiram Garcia and Brian Gewirtz. Universal Television served as the studio in association with Seven Bucks Productions and Fierce Baby Productions.
- 6/9/2023
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Young Rock has been canceled at NBC after three seasons.
NBC revealed the cancellation today, along with Grand Crew, while a decision has yet to be made on the future of American Auto. Separately, it picked up single-camera workplace comedy St. Denis Medical, starring Wendi McLendon-Covey and David Alan Grier, to series.
Season 3 saw quite a dip in linear ratings compared to the previous season, managing about 1.4M viewers and a 0.25 rating in the 18-49 demographic, according to live + same-day Nielsen data. Compare that to Season 2, which drew an average of 2.23M viewers and a 0.39 rating. Season 1 was by far the most-watched, averaging more than 3M viewers per episode and an impressive 0.62 demo rating.
The third season premiered in November 2022 and ended its 13-episode run in February.
Starring Dwayne Johnson, Young Rock focuses on different chapters of Johnson’s life. From growing up in a strong and resilient family to...
NBC revealed the cancellation today, along with Grand Crew, while a decision has yet to be made on the future of American Auto. Separately, it picked up single-camera workplace comedy St. Denis Medical, starring Wendi McLendon-Covey and David Alan Grier, to series.
Season 3 saw quite a dip in linear ratings compared to the previous season, managing about 1.4M viewers and a 0.25 rating in the 18-49 demographic, according to live + same-day Nielsen data. Compare that to Season 2, which drew an average of 2.23M viewers and a 0.39 rating. Season 1 was by far the most-watched, averaging more than 3M viewers per episode and an impressive 0.62 demo rating.
The third season premiered in November 2022 and ended its 13-episode run in February.
Starring Dwayne Johnson, Young Rock focuses on different chapters of Johnson’s life. From growing up in a strong and resilient family to...
- 6/9/2023
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
NBC has yet to make decisions about three of its comedies.
American Auto, Grand Crew and Young Rock all remain on the bubble after the network unveiled its fall schedule with these three shows absent from fall and midseason.
NBC said “decisions are yet to be made” on the trio.
American Auto comes from Superstore creator Justin Spitzer. The series premiered its second season in January and it ended its 13-episode run in April.
Starring Ana Gasteyer, Harriet Dyer and Jon Barinholtz, American Auto hails from Spitzer and Aaron Kaplan’s Kapital Entertainment. Written by Spitzer, American Auto is set at the headquarters of a major American automotive company in Detroit, where a floundering group of executives try to rediscover the company identity amidst a rapidly changing industry.
Harriet Dyer, Humphrey Ker, Michael B. Washington, Tye White and X Mayo also star.
Spitzer executive produces via his Spitzer Holding Company with Kapital’s Kaplan.
American Auto, Grand Crew and Young Rock all remain on the bubble after the network unveiled its fall schedule with these three shows absent from fall and midseason.
NBC said “decisions are yet to be made” on the trio.
American Auto comes from Superstore creator Justin Spitzer. The series premiered its second season in January and it ended its 13-episode run in April.
Starring Ana Gasteyer, Harriet Dyer and Jon Barinholtz, American Auto hails from Spitzer and Aaron Kaplan’s Kapital Entertainment. Written by Spitzer, American Auto is set at the headquarters of a major American automotive company in Detroit, where a floundering group of executives try to rediscover the company identity amidst a rapidly changing industry.
Harriet Dyer, Humphrey Ker, Michael B. Washington, Tye White and X Mayo also star.
Spitzer executive produces via his Spitzer Holding Company with Kapital’s Kaplan.
- 5/12/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Dwayne Johnson will not be our 49th president. The autobiographical comedy, Young Rock, about the actor’s past — and fictional future — begins Season 3 a year after his 2032 election loss, when his former opponent calls for his help with a trade deal during a global coffee bean shortage. (Credit: Frank Masi/NBC) “Does Dwayne jump back in and serve in this other role, or does he not?” asks exec producer Nahnatchka Khan. Well, he knows how to play rough: This round also follows twentysomething Dwayne’s (Uli Latukefu) evolution from unpopular baby-face pro wrestler Rocky Maivia to lauded heel “The Rock.” “When people hate you for the right reason, that is success in wrestling,” says fellow EP Jeff Chiang. Prepare for his Attitude Era rivalry with “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. Hulk Hogan casting has begun! Young Rock, Season 3 Premiere, Friday, November 4, 8:30/7:30c, NBC This is an excerpt from TV...
- 9/18/2022
- TV Insider
Peacock is developing an American adaptation of the Australian comedy series “Laid” with Nahnatchka Khan and Sally Bradford McKenna.
Khan and Bradford McKenna will serve as writers and executive producers on the project. It follows a woman who finds out her former lovers are dying in unusual ways. In investigating their deaths, she must come to terms with her complicated past.
Khan executive produces the show via Fierce Baby Productions along with Jennifer Carreras. John Davis and John Fox of Davis Entertainment also executive produce along with Liz Watts, Marieke Hardy and Kirsty Fisher of Porchlight Films. Hardy and Fisher co-created the original series, with Watts producing. All3Media International will also produce. Universal Television is the studio. Fierce Baby is currently under a TV overall deal at Utv, as is Davis Entertainment.
The original “Laid” aired on Australia’s ABC1 from 2011-2012. It aired two seasons and 12 episodes. The show starred Alison Bell,...
Khan and Bradford McKenna will serve as writers and executive producers on the project. It follows a woman who finds out her former lovers are dying in unusual ways. In investigating their deaths, she must come to terms with her complicated past.
Khan executive produces the show via Fierce Baby Productions along with Jennifer Carreras. John Davis and John Fox of Davis Entertainment also executive produce along with Liz Watts, Marieke Hardy and Kirsty Fisher of Porchlight Films. Hardy and Fisher co-created the original series, with Watts producing. All3Media International will also produce. Universal Television is the studio. Fierce Baby is currently under a TV overall deal at Utv, as is Davis Entertainment.
The original “Laid” aired on Australia’s ABC1 from 2011-2012. It aired two seasons and 12 episodes. The show starred Alison Bell,...
- 6/24/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
NBC has ordered more seasons from three of its top comedies. Dwayne Johnson‘s Young Rock has been renewed for Season 3, and Grand Crew has been renewed for Season 2, the network announced May 12. American Auto‘s Season 2 renewal was previously announced earlier on May 12. Young Rock takes a comedic look at The Rock’s life, recreating the star’s most formative experiences throughout his life and early career. Johnson stars alongside Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Ana Tuisila, John Tui, Fasitua Amosa, and Matthew Willig. Young Rock is NBC’s No. 1 primetime comedy in the 18-49 demo. Episodes are available for next-day streaming on Peacock. It’s executive produced by Nahnatchka Khan, Johnson, Jeff Chiang, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, Brian Gewirtz, and Jennifer Carreras. Season 2 is currently airing new episodes every Tuesday. Grand Crew stars Nicole Byer, Justin Cunningham, Aaron Jennings, Echo Kellum, Grasie Mercedes,...
- 5/12/2022
- TV Insider
“Young Rock” and “Grand Crew” have both been renewed at NBC.
“Young Rock” has been renewed for Season 3. The series is based on the life of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and follows him at three different points of his childhood into adulthood.
Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Ana Tuisila, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Fasitua Amosa, John Tui and Matthew Willig star in the series, with Johnson also starring and narrating.
Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang created the series and executive produce along with Johnson, Dany Garcia, Jennifer Carreras, Hiram Garcia, and Brian Gewirtz. The series is produced by Universal Television, Seven Bucks Productions and Fierce Baby Productions.
“Grand Crew” has been renewed for Season 2. The comedy series follows a group of young professionals who are all trying to navigate the ups and downs of life and love in Los Angeles – and they always find time to gather at...
“Young Rock” has been renewed for Season 3. The series is based on the life of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and follows him at three different points of his childhood into adulthood.
Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Ana Tuisila, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Fasitua Amosa, John Tui and Matthew Willig star in the series, with Johnson also starring and narrating.
Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang created the series and executive produce along with Johnson, Dany Garcia, Jennifer Carreras, Hiram Garcia, and Brian Gewirtz. The series is produced by Universal Television, Seven Bucks Productions and Fierce Baby Productions.
“Grand Crew” has been renewed for Season 2. The comedy series follows a group of young professionals who are all trying to navigate the ups and downs of life and love in Los Angeles – and they always find time to gather at...
- 5/12/2022
- by Joe Otterson and Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Young Rock will be back for a third season.
Starring Dwayne Johnson, Young Rock focuses on different chapters of Johnson’s life. From growing up in a strong and resilient family to being surrounded by the wild characters of his professional wrestling family to playing football at the University of Miami, the show explores the crazy rollercoaster that has shaped Dwayne into the man he is today and the larger-than-life characters he’s met along the way.
Johnson stars alongside Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Ana Tuisila, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Fasitua Amosa, John Tui and Matthew Willig.
Created by Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang and inspired by Dwayne Johnson’s life. Nahnatchka Khan, Jeff Chiang, Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Jennifer Carreras, Hiram Garcia and Brian Gewirtz serve as Executive Producers.
Young Rock is produced by Universal Television, Seven Bucks Productions and Fierce Baby Productions.
It joins Grand Crew,...
Starring Dwayne Johnson, Young Rock focuses on different chapters of Johnson’s life. From growing up in a strong and resilient family to being surrounded by the wild characters of his professional wrestling family to playing football at the University of Miami, the show explores the crazy rollercoaster that has shaped Dwayne into the man he is today and the larger-than-life characters he’s met along the way.
Johnson stars alongside Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Ana Tuisila, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Fasitua Amosa, John Tui and Matthew Willig.
Created by Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang and inspired by Dwayne Johnson’s life. Nahnatchka Khan, Jeff Chiang, Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Jennifer Carreras, Hiram Garcia and Brian Gewirtz serve as Executive Producers.
Young Rock is produced by Universal Television, Seven Bucks Productions and Fierce Baby Productions.
It joins Grand Crew,...
- 5/12/2022
- by Peter White and Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
The adventures of a young Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will continue for another season.
On Thursday, NBC confirmed it had renewed “Young Rock” for Season 3.
The series stars Johnson himself as he recounts tales of his younger years, Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Ana Tuisila, John Tui, Fasitua Amosa and Matthew Willig.
Nahnatchka Khan, Dwayne Johnson, Jeff Chiang, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, Brian Gewirtz and Jennifer Carreras are executive producers.
“Young Rock” is produced by Universal Television, in association with Seven Bucks Productions and Fierce Baby Productions.
Additionally, NBC has renewed its comedy “Grand Crew” for a second season.
“Grand Crew” stars Nicole Byer, Justin Cunningham, Aaron Jennings, Echo Kellum, Grasie Mercedes and Carl Tart.
Phil Augusta Jackson and Dan Goor are executive producers on the series.
The series is produced by Universal Television.
In related news, TheWrap has learned that “The Endgame,” “Kenan” and “Mr.
On Thursday, NBC confirmed it had renewed “Young Rock” for Season 3.
The series stars Johnson himself as he recounts tales of his younger years, Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Ana Tuisila, John Tui, Fasitua Amosa and Matthew Willig.
Nahnatchka Khan, Dwayne Johnson, Jeff Chiang, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, Brian Gewirtz and Jennifer Carreras are executive producers.
“Young Rock” is produced by Universal Television, in association with Seven Bucks Productions and Fierce Baby Productions.
Additionally, NBC has renewed its comedy “Grand Crew” for a second season.
“Grand Crew” stars Nicole Byer, Justin Cunningham, Aaron Jennings, Echo Kellum, Grasie Mercedes and Carl Tart.
Phil Augusta Jackson and Dan Goor are executive producers on the series.
The series is produced by Universal Television.
In related news, TheWrap has learned that “The Endgame,” “Kenan” and “Mr.
- 5/12/2022
- by Jolie Lash
- The Wrap
Tuesday’s episode of “Young Rock” is a special one. Not only does the installment chronicle Dwayne Johnson’s first-ever WWF match, but the episode was written by those who are incredibly familiar with the events chronicled within: Johnson, Hiram Garcia and Brian Gewirtz.
The episode, titled “Corpus Christi,” marks Johnson and Garcia’s screenwriting debut, while Gewirtz was a longtime head writer for WWE. Combined, the trio distilled a wealth of knowledge and memories into a half-hour episode that also includes appearances by wrestling legends like Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H – a task that they admitted was difficult.
“There’s so much story to tell in that limited space, but Dwayne’s got a great memory when it comes to those moments – especially these moments that are so pivotal for him – so he’s a great resource for us,” Garcia (who serves as president of production at...
The episode, titled “Corpus Christi,” marks Johnson and Garcia’s screenwriting debut, while Gewirtz was a longtime head writer for WWE. Combined, the trio distilled a wealth of knowledge and memories into a half-hour episode that also includes appearances by wrestling legends like Stone Cold Steve Austin and Triple H – a task that they admitted was difficult.
“There’s so much story to tell in that limited space, but Dwayne’s got a great memory when it comes to those moments – especially these moments that are so pivotal for him – so he’s a great resource for us,” Garcia (who serves as president of production at...
- 5/3/2022
- by Adam Chitwood
- The Wrap
Sean Astin will play Dwayne Johnson’s childhood nemesis, the grudge-holding chiropractor Dr. Julian Echo, in “Young Rock” Season 2, NBC confirmed to TheWrap on Monday.
Astin will be a recurring guest star in the flash-forward segments of the NBC comedy, which returns on March 15. The character appears before election day 2032, claiming that Dwayne tried to kill him when he was a boy, an allegation that might ruin the former wrestler’s presidential bid.
Astin’s recent TV credits include playing heroic Bob Newby on “Stranger Things” and guest turns on “The Big Bang Theory,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Supergirl.” He also narrated Crackle’s “Playing with Power: The Nintendo Story.” Astin is repped by Stewart Talent, Luber/Roklin, and Attorney Dave Feldman.
Arlyn Broche (“Ballers”) also joins Season 2 as Johnson’s real-life ex-wife, Dany Garcia. The head of The Garcia Companies and Tgc Management was married to Johnson from 1997 to 2008. They share a daughter,...
Astin will be a recurring guest star in the flash-forward segments of the NBC comedy, which returns on March 15. The character appears before election day 2032, claiming that Dwayne tried to kill him when he was a boy, an allegation that might ruin the former wrestler’s presidential bid.
Astin’s recent TV credits include playing heroic Bob Newby on “Stranger Things” and guest turns on “The Big Bang Theory,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Supergirl.” He also narrated Crackle’s “Playing with Power: The Nintendo Story.” Astin is repped by Stewart Talent, Luber/Roklin, and Attorney Dave Feldman.
Arlyn Broche (“Ballers”) also joins Season 2 as Johnson’s real-life ex-wife, Dany Garcia. The head of The Garcia Companies and Tgc Management was married to Johnson from 1997 to 2008. They share a daughter,...
- 3/14/2022
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Sean Astin is joining Dwayne Johnson’s “Young Rock” Season 2 in the role of The Rock’s childhood nemesis, Variety has learned exclusively.
A recurring guest star for the NBC comedy’s upcoming second season, Astin will play Dr. Julian Echo in the show’s fast-forwards. Dr. Echo, who had run-ins with Dwayne as a kid, is now a chiropractor from Minnesota who holds a grudge. He reappears two weeks before election day, claiming that Dwayne tried to kill him, a revelation that threatens to derail the Johnson presidential campaign.
Astin’s recent TV credits include playing Bob on “Stranger Things,” as well as guest stints on “The Big Bang Theory,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Supergirl.” He also served as narrator on last year’s “Playing with Power: The Nintendo Story.” The actor is also known for his roles in “The Goonies,” “Rudy” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.
Returning on March 15 at 8 p.
A recurring guest star for the NBC comedy’s upcoming second season, Astin will play Dr. Julian Echo in the show’s fast-forwards. Dr. Echo, who had run-ins with Dwayne as a kid, is now a chiropractor from Minnesota who holds a grudge. He reappears two weeks before election day, claiming that Dwayne tried to kill him, a revelation that threatens to derail the Johnson presidential campaign.
Astin’s recent TV credits include playing Bob on “Stranger Things,” as well as guest stints on “The Big Bang Theory,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Supergirl.” He also served as narrator on last year’s “Playing with Power: The Nintendo Story.” The actor is also known for his roles in “The Goonies,” “Rudy” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.
Returning on March 15 at 8 p.
- 3/14/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Dwayne Johnson’s autobiographical NBC comedy “Young Rock” has cast “Ballers” actor Arlyn Broche as a very personal character in The Rock’s life: Dany Garcia, his college sweetheart-turned-ex-wife-and-business-partner, Variety has learned exclusively.
Per the official description for the character, who will be a recurring guest star on the upcoming second season of “Young Rock,” Dany is compassionate and caring while also being a disciplined athlete and future CEO. She starts as Dwayne’s college sweetheart at Miami, but soon becomes a guiding force in his life as he contemplates embracing the grind of professional wrestling.
Broche is best known for her breakout role as Tonya on Season 2 of HBO’s “Ballers,” starring alongside Johnson and Andy Garcia on the show, which was produced by Johnson and Dany Garcia’s Seven Bucks banner. Her other TV credits include “Gravesend,” OWN’s “The Haves and the Have Nots,” and CBS’ “The Inspectors,...
Per the official description for the character, who will be a recurring guest star on the upcoming second season of “Young Rock,” Dany is compassionate and caring while also being a disciplined athlete and future CEO. She starts as Dwayne’s college sweetheart at Miami, but soon becomes a guiding force in his life as he contemplates embracing the grind of professional wrestling.
Broche is best known for her breakout role as Tonya on Season 2 of HBO’s “Ballers,” starring alongside Johnson and Andy Garcia on the show, which was produced by Johnson and Dany Garcia’s Seven Bucks banner. Her other TV credits include “Gravesend,” OWN’s “The Haves and the Have Nots,” and CBS’ “The Inspectors,...
- 3/11/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
It’s the Three Wise Men of NBC! Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Kenan Thompson, and Ted Danson serve up a trio of holiday-themed episodes of their comedies ahead of the shows’ official returns in 2022. Here’s a sneak peek at the December 15 lineup. Young Rock (8/7c) In a spin on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the three younger versions of Johnson are visited by their older selves and a certain giant while learning the true meaning of Christmas. “Sometimes you get the Cabbage Patch Kid that you wanted, and sometimes you get its horrifying knockoff version, the Radish Baby,” says executive producer Jeff Chiang. “It’s all about appreciating what you have.” (Credit: Hiram Garcia/NBC) Kenan (8:30/7:30c) TV host Kenan Williams (Thompson) and his family usually spend Christmas performing in his morning show’s “Holiday Spectacular.” This year, his brother/manager/elf Gary (Saturday Night Live’s...
- 12/15/2021
- TV Insider
NBC will air original episodes of all five of its comedy series — returning shows Young Rock, Kenan and Mr. Mayor – and new series Grand Crew and American Auto — during the week of December 13, ahead of their regular 2022 season premieres. The standalone holiday specials were initially announced in May before Grand Crew and American Auto had been given series orders.
Young Rock, Kenan and Mr. Mayor will return December 15 for holiday-inspired special episodes before their second season premieres in the new year.
New comedy American Auto, from Superstore executive produce Justin Spitzer, – will air its first two episodes in a special preview on Monday, December 13 at 10 p.m. following a live two-hour telecast of The Voice. Then, on Tuesday, December 14 from 8-9 p.m., Grand Crew – from Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Insecure writer Phil Augusta Jackson – will preview its first two episodes as well. Both will be available on digital platforms leading...
Young Rock, Kenan and Mr. Mayor will return December 15 for holiday-inspired special episodes before their second season premieres in the new year.
New comedy American Auto, from Superstore executive produce Justin Spitzer, – will air its first two episodes in a special preview on Monday, December 13 at 10 p.m. following a live two-hour telecast of The Voice. Then, on Tuesday, December 14 from 8-9 p.m., Grand Crew – from Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Insecure writer Phil Augusta Jackson – will preview its first two episodes as well. Both will be available on digital platforms leading...
- 11/3/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Production on season two of Universal Studio Group series Young Rock will begin in Queensland this month, with filming to take place on location around South-East Queensland and Village Roadshow Studios on the Gold Coast.
The series has received a $6.3 million grant from the Federal Government’s Location Incentive Program with the expectation it will inject more than $47 million into the Australian economy and create approximately 250 jobs for local cast and crew. Screen Queensland is also supporting the NBC-commissioned comedy via its Production Attraction Strategy.
It comes after the 11-part first season was shot out of Brisbane’s Screen Queensland Studios Studios in Hemmant from August 2020 to February 2021, and on location at Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Airport, The Old Museum at Bowen Hills, Mount Gravatt Lookout, Queensland Art Gallery, The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley, Qut Garden’s Point, Iona College, Redcliffe Dolphins Football Club, Carlo’s Naples Pizza Restaurant in Strathpine,...
The series has received a $6.3 million grant from the Federal Government’s Location Incentive Program with the expectation it will inject more than $47 million into the Australian economy and create approximately 250 jobs for local cast and crew. Screen Queensland is also supporting the NBC-commissioned comedy via its Production Attraction Strategy.
It comes after the 11-part first season was shot out of Brisbane’s Screen Queensland Studios Studios in Hemmant from August 2020 to February 2021, and on location at Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Airport, The Old Museum at Bowen Hills, Mount Gravatt Lookout, Queensland Art Gallery, The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley, Qut Garden’s Point, Iona College, Redcliffe Dolphins Football Club, Carlo’s Naples Pizza Restaurant in Strathpine,...
- 10/12/2021
- by Sean Slatter
- IF.com.au
Exclusive: We’ll be seeing more of André the Giant on Young Rock. Matthew Willig, who recurred as the character on the first season, has been promoted to series regular for Season 2 of Dwayne Johnson’s NBC comedy series inspired by his life. The series comes from Johnson and Fresh Off the Boat creator/executive producer Nahnatchka Khan.
Willig’s André, one of the biggest stars in the history of wrestling, commands respect wherever he goes. André was very private and didn’t let many people in, but he was very close to the Johnson family and had a unique and beautiful relationship with Dewey (Johnson’s nickname when he was a young boy) who idolized the 8th Wonder of the World.
Willig appeared in 6 episodes in the first season.
Young Rock focuses on different chapters of Johnson’s life. From growing up in a strong and resilient family to...
Willig’s André, one of the biggest stars in the history of wrestling, commands respect wherever he goes. André was very private and didn’t let many people in, but he was very close to the Johnson family and had a unique and beautiful relationship with Dewey (Johnson’s nickname when he was a young boy) who idolized the 8th Wonder of the World.
Willig appeared in 6 episodes in the first season.
Young Rock focuses on different chapters of Johnson’s life. From growing up in a strong and resilient family to...
- 8/3/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
An October 2020 UCLA Hollywood Diversity study — which focused on broadcast, cable and streaming programming for the previous two television seasons — reported that, when it comes to racial diversity in television industry jobs, while Black, indigenous, and other people of color (Bipoc) creatives continue to make incremental gains, positions at the highest ranks and behind the camera still elude them. The group is not represented proportionately to their share of the U.S. population overall, even though audiences continue to show interest in programming with talent that represents the nation’s diversity.
The analysis found that the greatest racial disparities are in behind-the-camera jobs such as a show’s creator, director, and writer: Among digital programs, just 10.3 percent of show creators were Bipoc; in broadcast, 10.7 percent; and for cable, 14.7 percent.
White men still dominate these positions, as well as high-level TV executive jobs. As of 2020, chair/CEO positions were overwhelmingly held...
The analysis found that the greatest racial disparities are in behind-the-camera jobs such as a show’s creator, director, and writer: Among digital programs, just 10.3 percent of show creators were Bipoc; in broadcast, 10.7 percent; and for cable, 14.7 percent.
White men still dominate these positions, as well as high-level TV executive jobs. As of 2020, chair/CEO positions were overwhelmingly held...
- 7/27/2021
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
In the sixth episode of new NBC sitcom “Young Rock,” based on the real life of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, his father, Rocky Johnson (Joseph Lee Anderson), prepares for and then wrestles in a Battle Royal. The way the match was written, there were 18 performers who would take each other out one, or a few, at a time, leaving Rocky to become the Polynesian Pacific champion. It’s a stunt-heavy sequence that includes performers hitting each other with chairs. Meanwhile Lia (Ana Tuisila) thinks Rocky is going to cross her and leave for a rival wrestling company. So, unbeknownst to Rocky, she changes the outcome at the last minute so that the Iron Sheik (Brett Azar) wins. This results in an emotional realization within the ring for Rocky, as well as an impromptu compromise from both men as to how exactly he will lose.
Jeff Chiang
Co-creator/executive producer
“As far as scripting the scene,...
Jeff Chiang
Co-creator/executive producer
“As far as scripting the scene,...
- 6/21/2021
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Nahnatchka Khan launched a show (NBC’s “Young Rock”) during the Covid-19 pandemic, but she considers herself lucky that she was able to start the writers’ room ahead of the lockdown. This meant getting to sit with her new team in person for “five or six weeks” in early 2020.
“It was honestly a gift,” she says. “On a first season show, it’s invaluable to just be all together like that to get into the flow.”
Once they did have to pivot to working from home, she was leading her room steps away from her wife, Julia Bicknell, who was also in a Zoom writers’ room. Their two dogs were always in her space, as well.
“We were like, ‘Our house is too small!’ Our thing was, ‘Let’s get on Zillow and figure out where we’re going,'” Khan says, adding that they did recently successfully close on a new home.
“It was honestly a gift,” she says. “On a first season show, it’s invaluable to just be all together like that to get into the flow.”
Once they did have to pivot to working from home, she was leading her room steps away from her wife, Julia Bicknell, who was also in a Zoom writers’ room. Their two dogs were always in her space, as well.
“We were like, ‘Our house is too small!’ Our thing was, ‘Let’s get on Zillow and figure out where we’re going,'” Khan says, adding that they did recently successfully close on a new home.
- 5/27/2021
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
A Zoom-crammed day in the life of the Young Rock creator during hotel quarantine in Australia
Early morning
Woke up very jet-lagged in a quarantine hotel in Brisbane, Australia, several days into a 14-day quarantine. The day before, we had our first pre-table read with the Young Rock cast over Zoom.
7 A.M.
Individual notes session with [writer and co-creator] Jeff Chiang with all the castmembers over Zoom, ahead of our first table read the day after today.
NBC
9:30 A.M.
Call with Young Rock dialogue coach. Obviously we’re doing it in Australia, and we have a lot of New Zealand ...
Early morning
Woke up very jet-lagged in a quarantine hotel in Brisbane, Australia, several days into a 14-day quarantine. The day before, we had our first pre-table read with the Young Rock cast over Zoom.
7 A.M.
Individual notes session with [writer and co-creator] Jeff Chiang with all the castmembers over Zoom, ahead of our first table read the day after today.
NBC
9:30 A.M.
Call with Young Rock dialogue coach. Obviously we’re doing it in Australia, and we have a lot of New Zealand ...
- 5/16/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A Zoom-crammed day in the life of the Young Rock creator during hotel quarantine in Australia
Early morning
Woke up very jet-lagged in a quarantine hotel in Brisbane, Australia, several days into a 14-day quarantine. The day before, we had our first pre-table read with the Young Rock cast over Zoom.
7 A.M.
Individual notes session with [writer and co-creator] Jeff Chiang with all the castmembers over Zoom, ahead of our first table read the day after today.
NBC
9:30 A.M.
Call with Young Rock dialogue coach. Obviously we’re doing it in Australia, and we have a lot of New Zealand ...
Early morning
Woke up very jet-lagged in a quarantine hotel in Brisbane, Australia, several days into a 14-day quarantine. The day before, we had our first pre-table read with the Young Rock cast over Zoom.
7 A.M.
Individual notes session with [writer and co-creator] Jeff Chiang with all the castmembers over Zoom, ahead of our first table read the day after today.
NBC
9:30 A.M.
Call with Young Rock dialogue coach. Obviously we’re doing it in Australia, and we have a lot of New Zealand ...
- 5/16/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
“Young Rock” and “Kenan” have both been renewed for Season 2 at NBC.
“It has been a true joy to watch Dwayne Johnson & Kenan Thompson on NBC every week and see families connect with their relatable, entertaining and heartwarming stories,” said Lisa Katz, president of scripted programming for NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “We’re thrilled to renew both of these shows for another season and can’t wait to see more from Dwayne, Kenan and the incredibly talented casts and producing teams behind each of them.”
“Young Rock” focuses on different chapters of Johnson’s life — from growing up in a strong and resilient family, to being surrounded by the wild characters of his professional wrestling family, to playing football at the University of Miami
Johnson serves as narrator and executive producer on the series. It also stars Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Ana Tuisila,...
“It has been a true joy to watch Dwayne Johnson & Kenan Thompson on NBC every week and see families connect with their relatable, entertaining and heartwarming stories,” said Lisa Katz, president of scripted programming for NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “We’re thrilled to renew both of these shows for another season and can’t wait to see more from Dwayne, Kenan and the incredibly talented casts and producing teams behind each of them.”
“Young Rock” focuses on different chapters of Johnson’s life — from growing up in a strong and resilient family, to being surrounded by the wild characters of his professional wrestling family, to playing football at the University of Miami
Johnson serves as narrator and executive producer on the series. It also stars Joseph Lee Anderson, Stacey Leilua, Adrian Groulx, Bradley Constant, Uli Latukefu, Ana Tuisila,...
- 4/30/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Two of NBC’s freshmen comedies are getting a sophomore year. Young Rock and Kenan have both been renewed for Season 2 at the network, TVLine has learned.
“It has been a true joy to watch Dwayne Johnson and Kenan Thompson on NBC every week and see families connect with their relatable, entertaining and heartwarming stories,” said Lisa Katz, NBCUniversal’s president of scripted programming. “We’re thrilled to renew both of these shows for another season and can’t wait to see more from Dwayne, Kenan and the incredibly talented casts and producing teams behind each of them.”
More from...
“It has been a true joy to watch Dwayne Johnson and Kenan Thompson on NBC every week and see families connect with their relatable, entertaining and heartwarming stories,” said Lisa Katz, NBCUniversal’s president of scripted programming. “We’re thrilled to renew both of these shows for another season and can’t wait to see more from Dwayne, Kenan and the incredibly talented casts and producing teams behind each of them.”
More from...
- 4/30/2021
- by Rebecca Iannucci
- TVLine.com
NBC is staying in business with Dwayne Johnson and Kenan Thompson.
The network has renewed comedies Young Rock and Kenan for second seasons. It marks the latest comedy renewals at the broadcaster, having ordered a second season of Mr. Mayor last month.
NBC said Young Rock, which debuted in February, is the No. 2 new comedy of the season in the 18-49 demo and that the pilot episode has been seen by 13.4M viewers. The network also noted that it is its top comedy debut across digital platforms on record through 60 days with 3.6M digital views.
The show focuses on different chapters of Johnson’s life. From growing up in a strong and resilient family to being surrounded by the wild characters of his professional wrestling family to playing football at the University of Miami, the show explores the crazy rollercoaster that has shaped Dwayne into the man he is today...
The network has renewed comedies Young Rock and Kenan for second seasons. It marks the latest comedy renewals at the broadcaster, having ordered a second season of Mr. Mayor last month.
NBC said Young Rock, which debuted in February, is the No. 2 new comedy of the season in the 18-49 demo and that the pilot episode has been seen by 13.4M viewers. The network also noted that it is its top comedy debut across digital platforms on record through 60 days with 3.6M digital views.
The show focuses on different chapters of Johnson’s life. From growing up in a strong and resilient family to being surrounded by the wild characters of his professional wrestling family to playing football at the University of Miami, the show explores the crazy rollercoaster that has shaped Dwayne into the man he is today...
- 4/30/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The Native American Media Alliance announced Alex Nystrom, Glenís Hunter (Shinnecock), Diego Moreno (Pascua Yaqui), Andrina Smith (Shinnecock), Brian Young, Shelby Ramirez, JohnTom Knight, Liz Stephens and Jeremy Charles are this year’s fellows.
“We live in an incredibly exciting time – we are finally seeing television shows about Native American people, by Native people, with Native artists on both sides of the camera,” said William Jehu Garroutte, director of education of the Native American Media Alliance. “As an alumni of the first Native American TV Writers Lab, I am excited to see this initiative continue to bolster our community, to empower our writers and storytellers. Every year, this program builds on an incredible community of talented artists. I look forward to the new and groundbreaking projects the 2021 cohort has to offer.”
Founded in 2016, the lab is a five-week intensive scriptwriters program that prepares Native Americans for writing careers at major television networks.
“We live in an incredibly exciting time – we are finally seeing television shows about Native American people, by Native people, with Native artists on both sides of the camera,” said William Jehu Garroutte, director of education of the Native American Media Alliance. “As an alumni of the first Native American TV Writers Lab, I am excited to see this initiative continue to bolster our community, to empower our writers and storytellers. Every year, this program builds on an incredible community of talented artists. I look forward to the new and groundbreaking projects the 2021 cohort has to offer.”
Founded in 2016, the lab is a five-week intensive scriptwriters program that prepares Native Americans for writing careers at major television networks.
- 4/2/2021
- by Antonio Ferme
- Variety Film + TV
Television Rating: 5.0/5.0
Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Scott Thompson on Wbgr-fm on February 18th, 2021, reviewing the new TV series “Young Rock,” Tuesdays on NBC-tv.
“Young Rock” is about media sensation Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, chronicling his early years in three phases, portrayed by three different actors. First phase, as a 12-year-old (Adrian Groulx) with a wrestling Dad from the 1970s/80s named Rocky “Soul Man” Johnson, and the assorted characters he worked with including the Iron Sheik and Andre the Giant. Second, nicknamed as “Dewey” (Bradley Constant), he’s a broke high schooler trying to learn his way in life. And third, as a college footballer (Uli Latukefu) determined to make his way in a new world. This is all framed with a sit-down interview of The Rock in reality (albeit running for president) by the great Randall Park.
Young Rock
Photo credit: NBC-tv
Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.
Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on “The Morning Mess” with Scott Thompson on Wbgr-fm on February 18th, 2021, reviewing the new TV series “Young Rock,” Tuesdays on NBC-tv.
“Young Rock” is about media sensation Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, chronicling his early years in three phases, portrayed by three different actors. First phase, as a 12-year-old (Adrian Groulx) with a wrestling Dad from the 1970s/80s named Rocky “Soul Man” Johnson, and the assorted characters he worked with including the Iron Sheik and Andre the Giant. Second, nicknamed as “Dewey” (Bradley Constant), he’s a broke high schooler trying to learn his way in life. And third, as a college footballer (Uli Latukefu) determined to make his way in a new world. This is all framed with a sit-down interview of The Rock in reality (albeit running for president) by the great Randall Park.
Young Rock
Photo credit: NBC-tv
Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.
- 2/23/2021
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
How ‘Young Rock’ Star Bradley Constant Played 15-Year-Old Dwayne Johnson as More Than a ‘Badass Kid’
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has made a career out of being larger than life, but for “Young Rock” star Bradley Constant, the challenge wasn’t mimicking the former pro-wrestler’s outsized persona but finding the insecure 15-year-old underneath.
“It was never pressed upon me to make sure I was a badass kid,” Constant said in an interview with TheWrap. “We all talked a lot about him being a real kid who’s dealing with real issues, and how that shows up in the show.”
The series, which comes from “Fresh off the Boat” duo Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang, charts Johnson’s growth from 10-year-old Dewey Johnson growing up in Hawaii to college athlete to wrestling superstar (to future presidential candidate?). Constant plays the 15-year-old version of Johnson who struggles to balance his two main priorities: impressing girls and being good to his mom.
Uli Latukefu as 20-year-old Johnson (NBC...
“It was never pressed upon me to make sure I was a badass kid,” Constant said in an interview with TheWrap. “We all talked a lot about him being a real kid who’s dealing with real issues, and how that shows up in the show.”
The series, which comes from “Fresh off the Boat” duo Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang, charts Johnson’s growth from 10-year-old Dewey Johnson growing up in Hawaii to college athlete to wrestling superstar (to future presidential candidate?). Constant plays the 15-year-old version of Johnson who struggles to balance his two main priorities: impressing girls and being good to his mom.
Uli Latukefu as 20-year-old Johnson (NBC...
- 2/16/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Spoiler Alert: This interview includes minor details from the pilot episode of Young Rock, which premieres tonight on NBC.
In the new NBC family comedy Young Rock based on the life of global superstar Dwayne Johnson, there is a scene where a teenage Dwayne purchases a clunker of a car from a sketchy guy for about $100. While driving the car, he discovers that there is another sketchy person living in the back of the car. When Deadline talked to Nahnatchka Khan, co-showrunner, creator, and executive producer of Young Rock, we assumed that this was just a funny, wild story to fold into the true story of Johnson.
Turns out the story was true.
“That was the story he told us,” said Khan. “We were like, ‘This is amazing,’ but the ending in the episode isn’t how it went down. … I don’t want to give it away, but he...
In the new NBC family comedy Young Rock based on the life of global superstar Dwayne Johnson, there is a scene where a teenage Dwayne purchases a clunker of a car from a sketchy guy for about $100. While driving the car, he discovers that there is another sketchy person living in the back of the car. When Deadline talked to Nahnatchka Khan, co-showrunner, creator, and executive producer of Young Rock, we assumed that this was just a funny, wild story to fold into the true story of Johnson.
Turns out the story was true.
“That was the story he told us,” said Khan. “We were like, ‘This is amazing,’ but the ending in the episode isn’t how it went down. … I don’t want to give it away, but he...
- 2/16/2021
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
“Young Rock,” NBC’s new sitcom about the early days of Dwayne Johnson, can’t resist peeking into the future. And there, the wrestler-turned-movie star is on the path to political glory.
The show is mainly consumed with telling cute and likable stories about Johnson’s upbringing as a child and his coming into his own as a young man. Like a comic spin on “This Is Us” with triceps presses instead of trauma, the show skips around three formative points in Johnson’s youth, then pivots into the future to show Johnson (playing himself) running for president in 2032 and telling his story to the voting public, in scenes set on an interview show or on the campaign trail. That he looks just the same as he does now, unchanging as a mountain, is part of this show’s image campaign: It took a lot to make Johnson who he is today,...
The show is mainly consumed with telling cute and likable stories about Johnson’s upbringing as a child and his coming into his own as a young man. Like a comic spin on “This Is Us” with triceps presses instead of trauma, the show skips around three formative points in Johnson’s youth, then pivots into the future to show Johnson (playing himself) running for president in 2032 and telling his story to the voting public, in scenes set on an interview show or on the campaign trail. That he looks just the same as he does now, unchanging as a mountain, is part of this show’s image campaign: It took a lot to make Johnson who he is today,...
- 2/16/2021
- by Daniel D'Addario
- Variety Film + TV
NBC’s Young Rock is a new comedy caught between The Rock and a good show.
To be clear, as with all things related to the Jumanji star and wrestling legend, The Rock is not a monolith.
There’s Dwayne Johnson, who collaborated with Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang to develop what is often a rather lovely tribute to Johnson’s hard-working parents and the values they instilled in him during his migratory, economically precarious childhood.
Then there’s The Rock, beloved movie star and social media presence of such high wattage and near-universal likability that you can understand why all and ...
To be clear, as with all things related to the Jumanji star and wrestling legend, The Rock is not a monolith.
There’s Dwayne Johnson, who collaborated with Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang to develop what is often a rather lovely tribute to Johnson’s hard-working parents and the values they instilled in him during his migratory, economically precarious childhood.
Then there’s The Rock, beloved movie star and social media presence of such high wattage and near-universal likability that you can understand why all and ...
- 2/16/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
NBC’s Young Rock is a new comedy caught between The Rock and a good show.
To be clear, as with all things related to the Jumanji star and wrestling legend, The Rock is not a monolith.
There’s Dwayne Johnson, who collaborated with Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang to develop what is often a rather lovely tribute to Johnson’s hard-working parents and the values they instilled in him during his migratory, economically precarious childhood.
Then there’s The Rock, beloved movie star and social media presence of such high wattage and near-universal likability that you can understand why all and ...
To be clear, as with all things related to the Jumanji star and wrestling legend, The Rock is not a monolith.
There’s Dwayne Johnson, who collaborated with Nahnatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang to develop what is often a rather lovely tribute to Johnson’s hard-working parents and the values they instilled in him during his migratory, economically precarious childhood.
Then there’s The Rock, beloved movie star and social media presence of such high wattage and near-universal likability that you can understand why all and ...
- 2/16/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Nahnatchka Khan grew up watching wrestling legends like “The Iron Sheik” with her Iranian immigrant family on Saturday nights in the 1980s. Fast-forward to now, and the showrunner of NBC’s “Young Rock” is hoping you’ll sit down with your family and watch her adaptation of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s life on Tuesday nights.
Khan is in familiar territory, as she was also the creator and executive producer of ABC’s “Fresh Off the Boat,” another sitcom inspired by a real person. But, retelling and reimagining in a way that felt revealing for someone as well-known as “The Rock” was a unique challenge.
Ahead of the series premiere of “Young Rock,” Khan talks with Variety about those challenges, including writing and casting real-life icons.
What was the process like to sit with Dwayne and get his real-life stories to use in the script?
We had a bunch of...
Khan is in familiar territory, as she was also the creator and executive producer of ABC’s “Fresh Off the Boat,” another sitcom inspired by a real person. But, retelling and reimagining in a way that felt revealing for someone as well-known as “The Rock” was a unique challenge.
Ahead of the series premiere of “Young Rock,” Khan talks with Variety about those challenges, including writing and casting real-life icons.
What was the process like to sit with Dwayne and get his real-life stories to use in the script?
We had a bunch of...
- 2/15/2021
- by Mónica Marie Zorrilla
- Variety Film + TV
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s autobiographical NBC comedy “Young Rock” has found its Vince McMahon in comedian Adam Ray, TheWrap has learned. Additionally, the role of “Macho Man” Randy Savage is being played by Kevin Makely, we’re told.
Ray, who voiced Slimer in 2016’s “Ghostbusters,” will play the future WWE Chairman as he worked his way up the ladder in his father’s pro-wrestling promotional business. Makely, who starred in 2019 western “Badland,” is a spot-on casting as one of the WWF’s most colorful characters.
Below are character descriptions for McMahon, Savage and the rest of the main wrestlers this side of Dwayne’s own dad Rocky Johnson (played by Joseph Lee Anderson). Find our first-look photos of Ray as McMahon and Makely as Savage at the bottom of the post.
Vince McMahon (Ray)
Bold, ambitious and quickly rising through the ranks of his father’s company, the future...
Ray, who voiced Slimer in 2016’s “Ghostbusters,” will play the future WWE Chairman as he worked his way up the ladder in his father’s pro-wrestling promotional business. Makely, who starred in 2019 western “Badland,” is a spot-on casting as one of the WWF’s most colorful characters.
Below are character descriptions for McMahon, Savage and the rest of the main wrestlers this side of Dwayne’s own dad Rocky Johnson (played by Joseph Lee Anderson). Find our first-look photos of Ray as McMahon and Makely as Savage at the bottom of the post.
Vince McMahon (Ray)
Bold, ambitious and quickly rising through the ranks of his father’s company, the future...
- 2/13/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Matthew Willig (Concussion) is set for a key recurring role in Young Rock, Dwayne Johnson’s upcoming NBC comedy series inspired by his life. The project comes from Johnson and Fresh Off the Boat creator/executive producer Nahnatchka Khan. Production is underway in Australia.
Willig will play legendary wrestler André the Giant. André, one of the biggest stars in history of wrestling, commands respect wherever he goes. André was very private and didn’t let many people in, but he was very close to the Johnson family and had a unique and beautiful relationship with Dewey (Johnson’s nickname when he was a young boy) who idolized the 8th Wonder of the World.
Young Rock will chronicle Johnson’s formative years, with the actor and ex-WWE star set to appear in each episode. It received a straight-to-series order in January.
André the Giant, who stood around seven feet tall,...
Willig will play legendary wrestler André the Giant. André, one of the biggest stars in history of wrestling, commands respect wherever he goes. André was very private and didn’t let many people in, but he was very close to the Johnson family and had a unique and beautiful relationship with Dewey (Johnson’s nickname when he was a young boy) who idolized the 8th Wonder of the World.
Young Rock will chronicle Johnson’s formative years, with the actor and ex-WWE star set to appear in each episode. It received a straight-to-series order in January.
André the Giant, who stood around seven feet tall,...
- 2/10/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Dwayne Johnson has had a pretty amazing life. A wrestler-turned-football-player-turned-actor, the multi-hyphenate is one of the most recognizable (and well-paid) faces in the world. But every famous figure has to come from somewhere, and that’s exactly what Young Rock explores. The NBC sitcom, created by Fresh Off the Boat creators Nanatchka Khan and Jeff Chiang tells the story of, well, the […]
The post ‘Young Rock’ Trailer: Full Trailer for NBC Sitcom Takes You Back to Dwayne Johnson’s Childhood appeared first on /Film.
The post ‘Young Rock’ Trailer: Full Trailer for NBC Sitcom Takes You Back to Dwayne Johnson’s Childhood appeared first on /Film.
- 1/27/2021
- by Hoai-Tran Bui
- Slash Film
NBC released the full-length trailer for “Young Rock” on Tuesday, giving a glimpse of the pro-wrestler-turned-Hollywood star’s journey from young kid growing up in Hawaii to getting his start in professional athletics.
The trailer also reveals the “How I Met Your Mother”-esque framing device for the show, which has Dwayne Johnson playing himself as a presidential candidate in 2032, recalling his early life history.
“To understand me,” Johnson says in the clip, “you gotta understand where I came from.”
The series, which hails from “Fresh off the Boat” creator Nahnatchka Khan, focuses on three different chapters of Johnson’s life, from growing up in a strong and resilient family, to being surrounded by the wild characters of his professional wrestling family, to playing football at the University of Miami.
Adrian Groulx plays the 10-year-old version of The Rock, with Bradley Constant playing him at 15 and Uli Latukefu playing him...
The trailer also reveals the “How I Met Your Mother”-esque framing device for the show, which has Dwayne Johnson playing himself as a presidential candidate in 2032, recalling his early life history.
“To understand me,” Johnson says in the clip, “you gotta understand where I came from.”
The series, which hails from “Fresh off the Boat” creator Nahnatchka Khan, focuses on three different chapters of Johnson’s life, from growing up in a strong and resilient family, to being surrounded by the wild characters of his professional wrestling family, to playing football at the University of Miami.
Adrian Groulx plays the 10-year-old version of The Rock, with Bradley Constant playing him at 15 and Uli Latukefu playing him...
- 1/27/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
This past fall, NBC shrank its signature Thursday comedy block from two hours to one, and now the network is opening a new comedy beachfront on Tuesday.
New half-hour series Young Rock and Kenan will premiere in the Tuesday 8 Pm hour on Feb. 16. Sophomore musical dramedy Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, which was relocated to the time slot this season and just launched its second season to encouraging ratings, will go on hiatus after airing six episodes and will return later in the spring. It has not been decided yet where the show will return; it likely will be in another time slot as the Tuesday 8 Pm hour will be occupied by The Voice until summer.
The Dwayne Johnson-Nahnatchka Khan’s Young Rock and Kenan Thompson starrer Kenan will air in the Tuesday 8 Pm hour through the end of May, finishing their orders. That is when The Voice’s...
New half-hour series Young Rock and Kenan will premiere in the Tuesday 8 Pm hour on Feb. 16. Sophomore musical dramedy Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, which was relocated to the time slot this season and just launched its second season to encouraging ratings, will go on hiatus after airing six episodes and will return later in the spring. It has not been decided yet where the show will return; it likely will be in another time slot as the Tuesday 8 Pm hour will be occupied by The Voice until summer.
The Dwayne Johnson-Nahnatchka Khan’s Young Rock and Kenan Thompson starrer Kenan will air in the Tuesday 8 Pm hour through the end of May, finishing their orders. That is when The Voice’s...
- 1/15/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
NBC is hitting pause on Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist to make room for a pair of new comedies fronted by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Saturday Night Live staple Kenan Thompson.
Young Rock will premiere on Tuesday, Feb. 16 at 8/7c, followed immediately by the premiere of Kenan at 8:30 pm. As these shows will be occupying Zoey’s usual time slot, the musical comedy will go on a brief hiatus after its sixth episode (Feb. 9, 8 pm) and will return in the spring.
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Young Rock Teaser Trailer, The Chi Promotion and MorePerformer of the Week: Paul BettanyLaw...
Young Rock will premiere on Tuesday, Feb. 16 at 8/7c, followed immediately by the premiere of Kenan at 8:30 pm. As these shows will be occupying Zoey’s usual time slot, the musical comedy will go on a brief hiatus after its sixth episode (Feb. 9, 8 pm) and will return in the spring.
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Young Rock Teaser Trailer, The Chi Promotion and MorePerformer of the Week: Paul BettanyLaw...
- 1/15/2021
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
“Young Rock,” an upcoming NBC comedy about the formative years of Dwayne Johsnon, continues to round out its ensemble.
Actor Lexie Duncan has been cast as a high-school sweetheart for the superstar during his teens, where she will play opposite Bradley Constant (the 15-year-old version of Johnson).
She’s set to play Karen, a popular, charismatic, high-school girl with dreams of attending Barbizon beauty school. Constant’s character catches her eye, and they begin dating in the idyllic town of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
Duncan, who hails from musical theater and marks her primetime debut in this role, is repped by Luber Roklin, Active Artists Management and The Initiative Group.
The series comes from Johnson’s company Seven Bucks and “Fresh Off the Boat” creator and executive producer Nahnatchka Khan, who wrote the pilot with collaborator Jeff Chiang.
Johnson, the star of the “Fast and the Furious” spinoff franchise “Hobbs & Shaw,” as...
Actor Lexie Duncan has been cast as a high-school sweetheart for the superstar during his teens, where she will play opposite Bradley Constant (the 15-year-old version of Johnson).
She’s set to play Karen, a popular, charismatic, high-school girl with dreams of attending Barbizon beauty school. Constant’s character catches her eye, and they begin dating in the idyllic town of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
Duncan, who hails from musical theater and marks her primetime debut in this role, is repped by Luber Roklin, Active Artists Management and The Initiative Group.
The series comes from Johnson’s company Seven Bucks and “Fresh Off the Boat” creator and executive producer Nahnatchka Khan, who wrote the pilot with collaborator Jeff Chiang.
Johnson, the star of the “Fast and the Furious” spinoff franchise “Hobbs & Shaw,” as...
- 1/15/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Dwayne Johnson is gearing up for his upcoming TV series 'Young Rock'.
The NBC TV series explores The Rock's journey from wrestling superstar to Hollywood stardom and highlights the periods of his life the show will focus on.
On Thursday, the former wrestler treated fans with the first official look at actor Joseph Lee Anderson who will play the role of his late father Rocky Johnson.
Johnson took a trip back in time and shared how he never got a chance to say goodbye to his father, who passed away earlier this year.
The 48-year-old actor took to Instagram, where he shared a behind-the-scenes photo of Anderson on the NBC show set.
"Seeing this image of actor, @officialjosephleeanderson playing my dad, Rocky Johnson (Rip Soulman) really sat me down," Dwayne Johnson wrote.
"On set of our new @nbc TV series, Young Rock - a show that explores my...
The NBC TV series explores The Rock's journey from wrestling superstar to Hollywood stardom and highlights the periods of his life the show will focus on.
On Thursday, the former wrestler treated fans with the first official look at actor Joseph Lee Anderson who will play the role of his late father Rocky Johnson.
Johnson took a trip back in time and shared how he never got a chance to say goodbye to his father, who passed away earlier this year.
The 48-year-old actor took to Instagram, where he shared a behind-the-scenes photo of Anderson on the NBC show set.
"Seeing this image of actor, @officialjosephleeanderson playing my dad, Rocky Johnson (Rip Soulman) really sat me down," Dwayne Johnson wrote.
"On set of our new @nbc TV series, Young Rock - a show that explores my...
- 11/27/2020
- by Omkar Padte
- GlamSham
Dwayne Johnson has shared an update on the upcoming comedy series inspired by his past life.
'Young Rock', the upcoming NBC show inspired by the life of Dwayne Johnson, has reportedly begun production and now the actor wants to make sure his fans know how things are flowing.
The former WWE superstar took to Instagram on Monday, where he shared a picture of himself with the series creator, Nahnatchka Khan (Fresh Off the Boat) going through a script to fine-tune the dialogue for authenticity.
"Excellent work week onset of our new TV series, “Young Rock” coming soon to @NBC," the 48-year-old wrote alongside the photo in which both can be seen wearing a face mask.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by therock (@therock)
"Working very closely with our series creator, Nahnatchka Khan. She’s a brilliant (and very funny) creative partner who I trust with my wildlife story growing up,...
'Young Rock', the upcoming NBC show inspired by the life of Dwayne Johnson, has reportedly begun production and now the actor wants to make sure his fans know how things are flowing.
The former WWE superstar took to Instagram on Monday, where he shared a picture of himself with the series creator, Nahnatchka Khan (Fresh Off the Boat) going through a script to fine-tune the dialogue for authenticity.
"Excellent work week onset of our new TV series, “Young Rock” coming soon to @NBC," the 48-year-old wrote alongside the photo in which both can be seen wearing a face mask.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by therock (@therock)
"Working very closely with our series creator, Nahnatchka Khan. She’s a brilliant (and very funny) creative partner who I trust with my wildlife story growing up,...
- 11/24/2020
- by Omkar Padte
- GlamSham
Young Rock, the upcoming NBC series inspired by the life of Dwayne Johnson, has started in on production in Queensland, Australia, Universal Television said Monday. The division of Universal Studio Group is producing the series, which will chronicle Johnson’s formative years. NBC gave it a straight-to-series order in January.
Johnson, the actor and ex-wrestling star, is set to appear in each episode of the series, from Fresh Off the Boat creator Nahnatchka Khan and co-executive producer Jeff Chiang, who co-wrote the pilot episode. The duo executive produce alongside Johnson, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, Brian Gewirtz and Jennifer Carreras. Australian natives Jeffrey Walker, who will serve as co-executive producer, and Daina Reid are directing various episodes throughout the series.
The cast includes Adrian Groulx as Dwayne Johnson (aka Dewey) at age 10, Bradley Constant as Johnson at age 15 and Uli Latukefu Johnson from ages 18-20. Stacey Leilua and Joseph Lee Anderson play Johnson’s parents.
Johnson, the actor and ex-wrestling star, is set to appear in each episode of the series, from Fresh Off the Boat creator Nahnatchka Khan and co-executive producer Jeff Chiang, who co-wrote the pilot episode. The duo executive produce alongside Johnson, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, Brian Gewirtz and Jennifer Carreras. Australian natives Jeffrey Walker, who will serve as co-executive producer, and Daina Reid are directing various episodes throughout the series.
The cast includes Adrian Groulx as Dwayne Johnson (aka Dewey) at age 10, Bradley Constant as Johnson at age 15 and Uli Latukefu Johnson from ages 18-20. Stacey Leilua and Joseph Lee Anderson play Johnson’s parents.
- 11/23/2020
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Four months after TV lit agents David Stone, a partner at WME, and Ben Jacobson, a partner at UTA, left their respective agencies to launch The Framework Collective, the management company has solidified their roster of clients, I have learned. It ranges from established producers, creators and showrunners to next generation voices, a number of whom were former clients of Stone and Jacobson on the agency side. The list includes Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner and 13 Reasons Why creator Brian Yorkey and Emmy-winning producer Warren Littlefield.
Tfc’s client roster of established creators/showrunners is said to include Peter Saji, co-creator and co-showrunner of ABC’s Mixed-ish; Courtney Lilly, showrunner of ABC’s Black-ish and co-showrunner of Mixed-ish; Martin Gero, creator and showrunner of NBC’s Blindspot and co-creator of Connecting; Elwood Reid, creator and showrunner of FX’s The Bridge...
Tfc’s client roster of established creators/showrunners is said to include Peter Saji, co-creator and co-showrunner of ABC’s Mixed-ish; Courtney Lilly, showrunner of ABC’s Black-ish and co-showrunner of Mixed-ish; Martin Gero, creator and showrunner of NBC’s Blindspot and co-creator of Connecting; Elwood Reid, creator and showrunner of FX’s The Bridge...
- 11/10/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Uli Latukefu.
Jeffrey Walker is the set-up director for Young Rock, the NBC-commissioned comedy which will star Uli Latukefu as the young adult Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.
Filming of the 11-part series created and co-written by Fierce Baby Productions’ Nahnatchka Khan starts in Queensland later this month, the first of three NBCUniversal productions to shoot back-to-back in the state over the next 18 months.
The series chronicles the Jumanji: The Next Level star and former professional wrestler’s high school years in Honolulu before he and his family moved to Nashville, where he was arrested multiple times for fighting, theft and cheque fraud before the age of 17.
Adrian Groulx plays Johnson when he was an honest, headstrong and impressionable 10-year-old. Bradley Constant is the 15-year-old, when his size and full moustache convinced his classmates he was an undercover cop.
Aussie Latukefu will play him aged 18-20 when he was recruited...
Jeffrey Walker is the set-up director for Young Rock, the NBC-commissioned comedy which will star Uli Latukefu as the young adult Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.
Filming of the 11-part series created and co-written by Fierce Baby Productions’ Nahnatchka Khan starts in Queensland later this month, the first of three NBCUniversal productions to shoot back-to-back in the state over the next 18 months.
The series chronicles the Jumanji: The Next Level star and former professional wrestler’s high school years in Honolulu before he and his family moved to Nashville, where he was arrested multiple times for fighting, theft and cheque fraud before the age of 17.
Adrian Groulx plays Johnson when he was an honest, headstrong and impressionable 10-year-old. Bradley Constant is the 15-year-old, when his size and full moustache convinced his classmates he was an undercover cop.
Aussie Latukefu will play him aged 18-20 when he was recruited...
- 10/1/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Dwayne Johnson has revealed the cast for 'Young Rock'.
The former WWE superstar recently announced the cast for his upcoming NBC comedy series on social media.
'Young Rock' which is inspired by the earlier life of Dwayne Johnson aka The Rock, reportedly received a straight-to-series order by NBC in January this year.
The series follows Johnson's childhood "from growing up in a strong and resilient family, to being surrounded by the wild characters of his professional wrestling family, to playing football at Miami University. It will explore the rollercoaster that has shaped Johnson into the man he is today and the larger-than-life characters he's met along the way," reports Variety.
Dwayne Johnson announced the cast sharing a series of Instagram posts on Wednesday. The post shows the actors that have been selected to portray younger versions of himself and his family members on the upcoming sitcom.
The former WWE superstar recently announced the cast for his upcoming NBC comedy series on social media.
'Young Rock' which is inspired by the earlier life of Dwayne Johnson aka The Rock, reportedly received a straight-to-series order by NBC in January this year.
The series follows Johnson's childhood "from growing up in a strong and resilient family, to being surrounded by the wild characters of his professional wrestling family, to playing football at Miami University. It will explore the rollercoaster that has shaped Johnson into the man he is today and the larger-than-life characters he's met along the way," reports Variety.
Dwayne Johnson announced the cast sharing a series of Instagram posts on Wednesday. The post shows the actors that have been selected to portray younger versions of himself and his family members on the upcoming sitcom.
- 10/1/2020
- by Omkar Padte
- GlamSham
Dwayne Johnson has revealed the cast for Young Rock, his upcoming NBC comedy series inspired by his life. The project comes from Johnson and Fresh Off the Boat creator/executive producer Nahnatchka Khan. Production is expected to start soon in Australia.
Young Rock will chronicle Johnson’s formative years, with Dwayne set to appear in each episode. It received a straight-to-series order in January. Johnson announced the cast with photos on Instagram Wednesday. You can see below the story.
Bradley Constant will portray Johnson at age 15 and Marco Polo star Uli Latukefu will play him from the ages of 18 to 20, when he’s recruited to play football at the University of Miami. Adrian Groulx plays Johnson at age 10. Stacey Leilua has been cast as Johnson’s mother, Ata Johnson, and his late father will be played by Joseph Lee Anderson. Johnson wrote a special tribute to his dad in announcing Anderson.
Young Rock will chronicle Johnson’s formative years, with Dwayne set to appear in each episode. It received a straight-to-series order in January. Johnson announced the cast with photos on Instagram Wednesday. You can see below the story.
Bradley Constant will portray Johnson at age 15 and Marco Polo star Uli Latukefu will play him from the ages of 18 to 20, when he’s recruited to play football at the University of Miami. Adrian Groulx plays Johnson at age 10. Stacey Leilua has been cast as Johnson’s mother, Ata Johnson, and his late father will be played by Joseph Lee Anderson. Johnson wrote a special tribute to his dad in announcing Anderson.
- 9/30/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
NBC’s “Young Rock” has found its Young Rock — and also two slightly older (but still young) Rocks. The series about the upbringing of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has also cast the roles of dad Rocky Johnson, mom Ata Johnson and grandmother/wrestling promoter Lia Maivia.
Adrian Groulx will play 10-year-old Dwayne, Bradley Constant will play high school Dwayne and Uli Latukefu will play college Dwayne, NBC said on Wednesday.
In college, Dwayne Johnson won the NCAA National Championship in football at the University of Miami. Though his pro football career never really took off, Dwayne followed in his family footsteps to pursue a career in professional wrestling and, eventually, conquered Hollywood.
Joseph Lee Anderson has been cast as second generation pro-wrestler Rocky Johnson, Stacey Leilua will play Ata Johnson and Ana Tuisila will play Lia Maivia.
Dwayne Johnson is considered an honorary member of the famous Anoa’i wrestling family.
Adrian Groulx will play 10-year-old Dwayne, Bradley Constant will play high school Dwayne and Uli Latukefu will play college Dwayne, NBC said on Wednesday.
In college, Dwayne Johnson won the NCAA National Championship in football at the University of Miami. Though his pro football career never really took off, Dwayne followed in his family footsteps to pursue a career in professional wrestling and, eventually, conquered Hollywood.
Joseph Lee Anderson has been cast as second generation pro-wrestler Rocky Johnson, Stacey Leilua will play Ata Johnson and Ana Tuisila will play Lia Maivia.
Dwayne Johnson is considered an honorary member of the famous Anoa’i wrestling family.
- 9/30/2020
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
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