Dwayne Johnson is everywhere. From movies to television, this trailblazing, eyebrow raising, people’s champ is looking to turn his wrestling background into a TV comedy at Fox. Variety has learned that the comedy will be based around Johnson’s working relationship with former WWE head writer Brian Gewirtz. The two have had a storied history; Gewirtz was hired by the sports entertainment giant in 1999 and was instrumental in elevating Johnson’s career in terms of scripting promos.
The yet-to-be-named series has a pilot commitment at Fox and Andrew Gurland, who created FX’s Married, will write the pilot script. Dwayne Johnson will serve in an executive producer capacity along with Will Ferrell, whose Gary Sanchez Productions is helping back the project.
The general premise involves the odd couple relationship that develops between an awkward comedy writer and a charismatic, alpha male wrestling figure. Trying to navigate the crazy ins and outs of professional wrestling, the writer leans on the wrestler for guidance. Funny hijinks ensue.
As one of the most in-demand stars on the planet, Johnson was humble when talking about his latest project.
“This November will mark the 20th anniversary of my professional wrestling debut. I was 24 years old, putting in the hard work, making $40 bucks per match and had no clue of the long journey that lay ahead of me with characters and backstage stories so colorful you’d think there’s no way that can be true. The entertaining show that goes on in front of the crowd pales in comparison to the insanely entertaining show that goes on backstage. Brian and myself can’t wait to tell our stories.”
Until this wrestling series gets off the mat Johnson’s dance card is loaded with upcoming film projects, including: Fast 8, Baywatch with Zac Efron, Rampage (based on the video game), a sequel to San Andreas, Jumanji with Jack Black, and Disney’s animated Moana.
