Hollywood star Dwayne Johnson has reflected on the meaning of influence, hard work and creating memorable experiences after being honoured as a Disney Legend as part of the Class of 2026. The recognition marked an important moment in his long career, but Johnson used the occasion to focus less on the award itself and more on the responsibility that comes with having the ability to affect people’s lives. In an emotional speech, the actor and former professional wrestler spoke about family, gratitude and the importance of using success to make others feel good.
Johnson shared a video from the celebration in which he expressed his appreciation to Disney and the thousands of people who joined him in singing “Happy Birthday” to his daughter Simone. For Johnson, the moment carried a meaning that went beyond the ceremony. It reminded him of a much earlier memory involving his daughter, when he was still learning how to navigate fatherhood and trying to understand the responsibilities that came with being a husband and parent.
During his speech, Johnson looked back on a visit to Disney with Simone when she was five years old. He remembered taking her to a breakfast experience with Disney princesses, describing himself at the time as a new father who was still trying to understand his role in his family. “For those of you who’ve been to Disney, which is all of you-you know, you have the breakfast with the princesses. Do you remember that? And we were there, and I was a new dad. I was, you know, she was five, and I was trying to figure my stuff out at that time: how I was going to be a father, how I was going to be a husband, a man, etc.”
Johnson spoke openly about the uncertainty that can accompany adulthood, particularly during the years when people are attempting to establish themselves personally and professionally. He recalled that period of his life with a sense of honesty, acknowledging that people do not necessarily have everything figured out simply because they reach a certain age.
“You know, as us dudes, when we’re in our thirties, we’re trying to figure our shit out, you know, and we’re still figuring it out,” he said. The memory became particularly emotional when he described watching his young daughter being encouraged to close her eyes and make a wish.
According to Johnson, the experience stayed with him because of the innocence and concentration he saw on his daughter’s face. “But I remember one of the princesses said, “Now close your eyes and make a wish.”” He then recalled the moment Simone closed her eyes and made her wish. For a father looking back years later, the simple childhood experience had become a lasting memory.
“I might get emotional, but she made a wish. And I just remember that moment, looking at my daughter’s face like I’d never seen that before. Like, she was just so into making a wish.” His recollection offered a more personal side of the actor, whose public career has often been defined by blockbuster films, major entertainment projects and his larger-than-life personality.
Johnson also connected the Disney Legend recognition with the broader idea of opportunity and achievement. While acknowledging how fortunate he felt to receive the honour, he stressed that success is also connected to effort. He referenced fellow honouree Anne Hathaway, who had also spoken about feeling fortunate to have reached such a position.
“And I was telling Danny, I said, “God, I wonder what was going through her little mind at that time.”” Johnson said the memory had made him think about how experiences from childhood can remain meaningful long after the moment has passed.
He later addressed the significance of being named a Disney Legend and used the occasion to speak directly to younger people listening to his message. “Being a Disney Legend and how lucky we are, like Anne Hathaway said. And, by the way, Annie was just talking about how lucky she is. We are all lucky to get to do what we do. But, man, for everybody listening, especially our young folks out there, you get lucky when you work hard. And Annie works hard, by the way.”
That message reflects an idea Johnson has frequently associated with his own career: opportunity may open doors, but sustained work is needed to build a lasting career. His journey from professional wrestling to becoming one of Hollywood’s most recognisable performers has involved major changes in both his professional identity and public image. The Disney Legend honour represents another significant milestone in that progression.
However, Johnson’s most important message during the celebration centred on what people do with influence once they have it. He argued that influence carries a responsibility, regardless of whether that influence exists on a global scale or within a smaller community.
“I think when you’re in a position of influence and power – whether it’s smaller scale or global – man we gotta use that power to create amazing experiences for people and make people feel good.” The statement captured the tone of his appearance, shifting the focus from celebrity recognition to the effect individuals can have on others.
For Johnson, that philosophy was demonstrated during the celebration itself. The thousands of people who joined him in singing for Simone created a personal moment that he described as unforgettable. His gratitude was directed not only toward Disney for the honour but also toward the people who participated in the celebration.
“THANK YOU from my heart to the thousands of people who joined me in singing HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my daughter Simone Creating unforgettable experiences and making people feel good. Very cool moment and WE all did that. Thank you @disney for the great honor. Disney Legend Class of 2026”
