Actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson revealed that he and his immediate family recently tested positive for COVID-19. The former wrestler took to his Instagram account on Wednesday, Sept. 2, to make the shocking announcement.
In the almost 12-minute video, the “Jumanji” star shared that he, wife Lauren, and their two young daughters, 4 and 2, tested positive for the virus about three weeks ago. The 48 year old said while his daughters only experienced mild symptoms and were able to “bounce back,” the illness was much tougher on him and his wife.
“I wanted to give you guys a little helpful update on some of the things that I’ve been going through on my end for the past two-and-a-half to three weeks now. So the update is this: my wife, Lauren, as well as my two baby girls and myself, we have all tested positive for COVID-19,” Johnson began his video. “I can tell you that this has been one of the most challenging and difficult things we have ever had to endure as a family, and for me personally too as well, and I’ve gone through some doozies in the past.”
He continued, “I wish it was only me who tested positive, but it wasn’t; it was my entire family, so this one was a real kick in the gut. But I am happy to tell you guys that we as a family are good. We’re on the other end of it; we’re on the other side. We’re no longer contagious, and we are — thank God — we are healthy.”
The actor said that he and his family contracted the illness from family friends who were unaware that they were infected. Johnson said their friends were “devastated” that they unintentionally spread the virus.
“Having your friends over, having your family members over, your loved ones, of course, you want that because you want that connection, and you want to be with the people who you love and who you care about,” he said. “My takeaway here isn’t necessarily keep them away. I’m not saying that; but what I am saying now is apply an even greater discipline to having people over to your house.” The star revealed that moving forward, any trusted family and friends who come to his home will be tested for the virus before being allowed over.
Johnson then urged fans to wear their masks. “It baffles me that some people out there, including some politicians, will take this idea of wearing masks and make it a political agenda, part of a political agenda, politicizing it,” the actor said. “It has nothing to do with politics. Wear your mask. It is a fact, and it is the right thing to do. And it’s the responsible thing to do not only for yourself, but for your family and loved ones, but also for your fellow human beings.”
“The Rampage” star concluded his lengthy video asking viewers to “Use me as your example.” He added, “Remember these takeaways that I shared with you and stay healthy, my friends, and I’ll see you down the road.” Johnson joins a slew of celebrities who have been diagnosed with the illness, including Idris Elba, Kevin Durant and Bebe Winans.
