Strikes Persist: Hollywood WWE Stars Return to Wrestling as Writers & Actors Take the Stage

2023-09-22 06:00:04

Hollywood's WWE Superstars Return to Wrestling Amid Continuing Writers & Actors' Strikes

As the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes persist, two of Hollywood's biggest WWE Superstars, John Cena and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, have made their comeback to the squared circle. During a recent episode of Friday Night SmackDown on September 15, The Rock surprised the Denver crowd with his return, receiving a standing ovation. Amid the strike-induced shortage of roles and projects in the entertainment industry, the wrestlers-turned-actors find solace in their return to the wrestling world.

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NBC's cancellation of Dwayne Johnson's autobiographical series Young Rock, along with the failure of his movie Black Adam and the monetary loss suffered by his XFL venture, led to a decline in his Hollywood career, making his return to WWE all the more significant. Similarly, John Cena's appearance on SmackDown for seven consecutive weeks starting from September 15 provides him with an entertainment platform and a source of income during the strike.

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The Rock's Struggles and WWE Comeback

Dwayne Johnson's professional setbacks, including the cancellation of his show and the financial loss from other projects, have led to speculation about his declining status in Hollywood. Some Twitter users even suggested that he had hit "Rock Bottom." However, The Rock's return to WWE has proven to be a success, evidenced by his impactful appearance on Friday Night SmackDown, which drew in 2.6 million viewers and saw a significant increase in ratings.

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Potential Rematch and Dave Bautista's Return

During their backstage confrontation, Cena and The Rock hinted at a potential rematch in WrestleMania 40, ten years after their initial clash at WrestleMania 29. Although the rematch may not materialize, there are other opportunities for both wrestlers. The Rock also mentioned a possible match against Roman Reigns at last year's WrestleMania. Additionally, retired wrestler Dave Bautista expressed his willingness to return to WWE due to the writers' strike's impact on his schedule.

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Impact of Hollywood Superstars' Return

The comeback of Hollywood Superstars to WWE has had a positive influence on ratings and viewership. The Rock's appearance on Friday Night SmackDown led to a 23% increase in viewers compared to the previous week and a 16% rise from a year ago. It also resulted in improved ratings in the 18-49 age demographic, with a 33% week-over-week increase and a significant 40% rise compared to the same period last year. The Rock's return garnered over 100 million views on social media.

While their return to WWE may be celebrated by fans, it also raises concerns among industry professionals and aspiring talent, who may view it as a lack of solidarity during the ongoing strikes. Regardless, Cena, Johnson, and Bautista are not immune to criticism or accusations of being scabs in the entertainment world.

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