Hollywood actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has opened up about his complicated relationship with his late father, Rocky “Soulman” Johnson.

Though there was love between them, their bond was also marked by many disagreements and challenges.

At the Venice Film Festival, Johnson admitted that he couldn’t draw inspiration from his father when it came to tenderness.

Rocky had lived through a rough childhood, even being homeless at 13, which limited his ability to show love openly.

Johnson shared that their relationship ended on a sad note. On Christmas Eve in 2019, the two had a heated argument, and unfortunately, they never spoke again before Rocky passed away in early 2020 at the age of 75. The actor still carries the pain of not being able to make peace with his dad before his death.

Reflecting on that regret, Johnson revealed that he often wishes he could hug his father one last time, kiss him on the cheek, and tell him, “We’re good.” He now understands that all the arguments don’t matter once a loved one is gone.

The passing of his father made Johnson think differently about unresolved conflicts.

He encouraged others to make peace with their parents while they still have the chance, even if it feels uncomfortable. According to him, trying alone can open the door to a deeper kind of love.

Despite the difficulties in their relationship, Johnson said he remains grateful for the lessons his father passed on. Rocky taught him the values of hard work and discipline—qualities that became the pillars of his success.

Although his father’s way of loving was limited, Johnson has come to realize later in life that he was loved in the best way his father knew how.