In a recent social media uproar, actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson responded with good humor to a wax statue unveiled by a French museum that portrayed him with notably lighter skin than his natural complexion. Originating from Samoan and African American heritage, Johnson took to Instagram to address the situation with grace and a touch of comedy.
“I’ll have my team reach out to our friends at the Grevin Museum in Paris, France, for an update on my wax figure with some adjustments and improvements, starting with my skin tone,” Johnson shared on his Instagram account. He went on to joke, “And the next time I’m in Paris, I’ll pay it a visit and have a drink with myself.”
The Grevin Museum swiftly responded to the criticism, announcing their intention to “touch up” the statue. Yves Delhommeau, the museum’s CEO, confirmed that they would be working through the night to meet fan expectations. They also acknowledged the need to adjust lighting to better represent the texture of Johnson’s skin.
The controversy stirred strong reactions online, with fans expressing disappointment and questioning the museum’s decision to lighten Johnson’s skin. Some even likened the figure to other public figures entirely. This incident isn’t the first for the Grevin Museum, having faced similar backlash in 2018 over a less-than-flattering wax statue of French President Emmanuel Macron.
Amidst the debate, Johnson’s response stands out for its grace, highlighting the importance of embracing one’s identity. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing conversation surrounding representation and cultural accuracy, even within the realm of wax figures. As the museum revisits their portrayal of Johnson, it signals a broader dialogue about inclusivity and respect for diverse backgrounds in the world of art and entertainment.