Dwayne Johnson to Star and Produce Action Drama Free Byrd

Dwayne Johnson is set to star in and produce a new action-drama film titled "Free Byrd" for Artists Equity, the production company founded by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon. The project was announced on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

Johnson will portray a Las Vegas motorcycle stuntman who conceals a dementia diagnosis from everyone, including his mechanic brother, as he risks everything on one final, death-defying jump. According to the film's official logline, the story examines the mind's mysteries and the power of asking for help before it is too late.

The film will be directed by Greg Kwedar, an Academy Award-nominated filmmaker for "Sing Sing" and "Train Dreams." Kwedar will also rewrite the screenplay. The script originated with Jon Boyer and was featured on the Black List, with an earlier draft written by Michael Schwartz and Tyler Nilson, the writer-directors of "The Peanut Butter Falcon."

In a statement, Johnson called the project a personal one, saying, "Free Byrd is a gift in many ways. Emblematic of life's sacred beauty, as well as life's harsh and callous reality." He added that the subject matter has become deeply personal to both himself and Kwedar as they have begun working...