Dwayne Johnson Embraces Viral Mockery Over Maui Wig

The transition from Johnson’s signature shaved head to the flowing locks of his animated counterpart proved jarring for audiences, sparking comparisons to everything from John Cena’s Kenmaid look in Barbie to Saturday Night Live sketches. Even parody musician Weird Al Yankovic joined the fray, posting a photo of the costume to joke that casting agents were confusing the actor for a potential biopic lead. Johnson noted that the reaction was not entirely limited to fans; his own children found the transformation equally disorienting.

Despite the online critique, Johnson remains focused on the film’s cultural impact. Speaking at the Los Angeles premiere, he emphasized the importance of bringing the story to life with real human stakes, aiming to showcase Pacific Islander culture with a new level of emotional depth. This isn't the first time the actor has navigated internet scrutiny regarding his grooming habits. Earlier this year, he faced viral questions about launching his Papatui hair care line while bald, a situation he addressed with similar humor by stitching a TikTok user’s video while wearing his Maui costume. The actor’s willingness to laugh at his own image has become a hallmark of his promotional strategy as Moana prepares for its July 10 theatrical release.