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The Express Gazette
Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Dwayne Johnson Unrecognizable as Elderly Man on "Lizard Music" Set

The actor sports extensive prosthetics and graying hair for his role in Benny Safdie's upcoming film.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
Dwayne Johnson Unrecognizable as Elderly Man on "Lizard Music" Set

Dwayne Johnson underwent a dramatic transformation, appearing virtually unrecognizable as an elderly man on the set of his upcoming film, "Lizard Music." The actor was photographed in Coney Island, Brooklyn, on Tuesday, filming scenes for the Benny Safdie-directed project.

Johnson, 54, was seen wearing a tan trench coat, a matching floppy hat, and sneakers, paired with a blue shirt and tie. He was pictured alongside child actor Theo Clark Leber, with both individuals holding slices of pizza. Leber also carried a large green lizard plush toy.

The transformation included gray facial hair and apparent facial prosthetics, significantly altering Johnson's appearance. Only his distinctive jawline and height hinted at his true identity. Johnson has a history of physical transformations for his roles, including bulking up for "The Smashing Machine" to play MMA fighter Mark Kerr.

In "The Smashing Machine," Johnson gained over 30 pounds and utilized 22 prosthetics, describing the process as the hardest thing he had ever done. He noted the need for a specific physical and vocal transformation to embody Kerr, a former wrestler. Johnson detailed the extensive training for that role, focusing on the musculature of wrestlers with less pronounced necks.

"Lizard Music" is described as a film centered around a young boy's friendship with a peculiar man. Their journey uncovers hidden worlds and forges an unlikely, magical bond. The film's ensemble cast includes Rachel McAdams, Colman Domingo, Alicia Silverstone, Tim Heidecker, Regina Hall, and Jeff Goldblum.

Following his work on "Lizard Music," Johnson is also set to star in the live-action adaptation of Disney's "Moana," reprising his role as demigod Maui, a character he previously voiced in the animated film and its sequel.


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