Brendan Fraser praises Dwayne Johnson’s casting in The Mummy Returns

Brendan Fraser has shared his thoughts on Dwayne Johnson’s first film role in the 2001 blockbuster The Mummy Returns, calling the casting decision “inspired.”

Fraser, who starred as Rick O’Connell in the film series, revealed that he didn’t know Johnson personally or professionally before he was considered for the role of the Scorpion King.

“When I was told that you were a possibility for it, forgive me, but I didn’t know you from the wrestling world,” Fraser said during a recent Variety Actors on Actors interview. “And when I was shown, I said, ‘That is inspired casting. We’d be lucky to get the guy.’”

Fraser noted that Johnson’s wrestling persona and larger-than-life energy made him the perfect fit for a villain audiences would love to hate. Johnson’s transition from professional wrestling to Hollywood was marked by confidence and ambition, and Fraser welcomed him to the project with open arms.

Johnson later reflected on Fraser’s support, stating that Fraser’s encouragement “meant something to me” and helped launch his acting career. Since The Mummy Returns, Johnson has starred in major franchises including Jungle Cruise, Jumanji, Fast & Furious, Moana, and DC’s Black Adam.

Interestingly, Fraser and Johnson didn’t meet in person until a post-production reception, as Johnson’s character was largely created through CGI. Despite this, Fraser praised Johnson’s dedication to his role and hinted at the possibility of a reunion in a potential fourth Mummy film, which could bring Rick O’Connell and the Scorpion King back together on screen.