Lasting Legacy of Dwayne Johnson: A Look at the Influence on History

A detailed timeline of the impact and legacy of Dwayne Johnson across different fields.

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is an American actor and professional wrestler, considered one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. He rose to fame during the WWF's Attitude Era before transitioning to a highly successful acting career. His films have grossed billions worldwide, establishing him as one of the highest-grossing and highest-paid actors. Beyond entertainment, Johnson is a co-owner of the United Football League, a board member of TKO Group Holdings (UFC/WWE parent company), and co-founder of Seven Bucks Productions.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1982: Maternal Grandmother Takes Over Polynesian Pacific Pro Wrestling

In 1982, Dwayne Johnson's maternal grandmother, Lia Maivia, took over Polynesian Pacific Pro Wrestling after her husband's death.

1983: Father and Tony Atlas First Black Tag Team Champions

In 1983, Dwayne Johnson's father and Tony Atlas were the first black tag team champions in WWE history.

1988: End of Maternal Grandmother's Management of Polynesian Pacific Pro Wrestling

In 1988, Dwayne Johnson's maternal grandmother, Lia Maivia, ended her management of Polynesian Pacific Pro Wrestling.

1999: Entertainment Weekly's Top Entertainer

In 1999, the Rock was listed No. 1 on Entertainment Weekly's Top 12 Entertainers of the Year.

2000: Ranked Highly by Access Hollywood

In 2000, Access Hollywood ranked him No. 1 in their list of the Top 10 Celebrities of 2000.

2001: Listed on E!'s Top Entertainers

In 2001, he was also listed on E!'s 20 Top Entertainers.

2002: Listed on E!'s Toughest Stars

In 2002, the Rock was listed on E!'s 25 Toughest Stars.

2003: Listed in VH1's Greatest Pop Culture Icons

In 2003, he was listed in VH1's 200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons and was No. 7 in People Magazine's 50 Favorite TV Stars.

March 29, 2008: WWE Hall of Fame Induction

On March 29, 2008, Johnson inducted his father Rocky Johnson and grandfather Peter Maivia into the WWE Hall of Fame.

2008: Induction into WWE Hall of Fame

In 2008, Dwayne Johnson inducted his father and grandfather into the WWE Hall of Fame, honoring their contributions to professional wrestling.

2013: Hulk Hogan Interview

In 2013, Hulk Hogan revealed in an interview that he and The Rock changed the style of their Wrestlemania X8 match based on the crowd's reaction.

2016: Named one of Time's Most Influential People

In 2016, Time named Dwayne Johnson as one of the world's most influential people, recognizing his impact and influence.

2018: Sean Coyle Retrospective Review

In 2018, Sean Coyle wrote a retrospective review for ESPN.com noting that The Rock experienced a decline in fan support after his victory over Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania X8 and a further plunge by the time of his SummerSlam match with Brock Lesnar due to his impending departure for an acting career.