From Muscle Titan to Whimsical Octogenarian
During a conversation at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) held on September 8, the actor revealed the transformation wasn’t health-related—but purely for art. Preparing for Lizard Music, an adaptation of Daniel Pinkwater’s offbeat novel, Johnson is intentionally slimming down to portray the “Chicken Man,” a quirky and eccentric man in his 70s whose closest confidante is a similarly aged chicken
Johnson joked that playing the Chicken Man meant he’s been “eating less chicken”—a playful nod to his diet and effort. It’s a direct flip from his recent ramped-up physicality: only weeks earlier, he had bulked up for his role as MMA legend Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine.
“This is me slimmed down… I still have a long ways to go,” Johnson admitted, underscoring how committed he remains to the transformation.
From Grit to Guffaws: A Role That Defies Expectation
The lead-up to TIFF was marked by his striking new look debuting at the 2025 Venice Film Festival in early September, where he promoted The Smashing Machine. The raw and emotional biopic earned a 15-minute standing ovation, with Johnson visibly moved by the acclaim.
Fans were equally moved—but also stunned by his slimmed-down frame. Some joked online, dubbing him “The Pebble,” while others questioned if the images had been digitally altered. Yet Johnson used the moment to emphasize his evolving creative goals—
"There was just a voice inside of me… ‘Well, what if I could do more—and what does that look like?’" he reflected, signaling a deliberate shift from megablockbuster muscle roles toward more nuanced character work.
Moreover, beyond aesthetics, Johnson revealed that gut health challenges earlier this year prompted a recalibration of how he views fitness—less about show-muscles, more about holistic well-being. He lost nearly 28 kg for The Smashing Machine, adopting the motto of “using data, not noise” to guide his health journey
What Lies Ahead: Acting Evolution in Motion
Johnson’s performance in The Smashing Machine has not only redefined his acting persona but also fueled expectations that he could receive Oscar buzz.
And now, with Lizard Music, he’s doubling down—embracing the unexpected and whimsical:
-
He’s partnering again with director Benny Safdie, following their collaboration on The Smashing Machine .
-
Johnson described his immediate connection with the project upon hearing the pitch: “After about 45 minutes, I said, ‘I am your Chicken Man.’” .
Johnson’s transformation—from a muscle-bound icon to an artist driven by depth—has not only surprised audiences but also cemented his status as one of Hollywood’s most fearless actors willing to challenge himself.
