Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has responded further to Vin Diesel's recent request that he re-join the Fast & Furious franchise. Speaking to CNN, The Rock said he was "very surprised" to see Diesel's post in November, in which Diesel said The Rock "must show up" to play Hobbs once again.

　　The Rock told CNN that he spoke privately with Diesel in June, and it was at this time that The Rock informed Diesel that he would not return to the series. Diesel making his statement publicly months later was a form of "manipulation," The Rock said.

　　"I was firm yet cordial with my words and said that I would always be supportive of the cast and always root for the franchise to be successful, but that there was no chance I would return," The Rock said. "I privately spoke with my partners at Universal as well, all of whom were very supportive as they understand the problem.

　　"Vin's recent public post was an example of his manipulation. I didn't like that he brought up his children in the post, as well as Paul Walker's death. Leave them out of it. We had spoken months ago about this and came to a clear understanding."

　　The Rock said his goal was to end his run with Fast & Furious with "gratitude and grace," but this ongoing back-and-forth with Diesel has "muddied the waters."

　　"Regardless, I'm confident in the Fast universe and its ability to consistently deliver for the audience, and I truly wish my former co-stars and crew members the best of luck and success in the next chapter," The Rock said.

　　While The Rock might not be part of the Fast franchise any longer, the series is continuing with Fast & Furious 10, which releases in May 2023. The latest film, F9, made $726 million during the pandemic.