Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson lays the smackdown on Vin Diesel

Dwayne Johnson addressed Vin Diesel’s November Instagram post, in which he had asked The Rock to rejoin the Fast & Furious franchise, in a new interview with CNN published on Wednesday.

Johnson called his former co-star’s move “an example of his manipulation.” He said, “I was very surprised by Vin's recent post. This past June, when Vin and I actually connected, not over social media, I told him directly — and privately — 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 there was no chance I would return. I privately spoke with my partners at Universal as well, all of whom were very supportive as they understand the problem."

Johnson did not appreciate Diesel bringing up his children in the post, neither did he like his mentin of Paul Walker’s death. “Leave them out of it," Johnson urged. "We had spoken months ago about this and came to a clear understanding. My goal, all along, was to end my amazing journey with this incredible franchise with gratitude and grace."

The actor believes their public dialogue “has muddied the waters.” Regardless, he is “confident in the Fast universe and its ability to consistently deliver for the audience, and I truly wish my former co-stars and crew members the best of luck and success in the next chapter," Johnson added.

An excerpt of Diesel’s Instagram post, albeit, seemingly well-intended, stated: "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."

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