‘The Rock’ Reveals COVID-19 Battle

Actor Dwayne Johnson poses at the world premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Moana" in Hollywood, California, U.S., November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Danny Moloshok/File Photo
Actor Dwayne Johnson poses at the world premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Moana" in Hollywood, California, U.S., November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Danny Moloshok/File Photo
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‘The Rock’ Reveals COVID-19 Battle

Actor Dwayne Johnson poses at the world premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Moana" in Hollywood, California, U.S., November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Danny Moloshok/File Photo
Actor Dwayne Johnson poses at the world premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Moana" in Hollywood, California, U.S., November 14, 2016. REUTERS/Danny Moloshok/File Photo

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has said he and his family tested positive for the coronavirus but have made a full recovery.

Johnson, the world's top-paid actor, announced their diagnosis in an 11-plus minute video on Instagram on Wednesday.

The actor said he was shocked after hearing their positive tests. He called the ordeal “one of the most challenging and difficult things we’ve had ever to endure.”

Johnson said he along with his wife, Lauren Hashian, and two young daughters contracted the COVID-19 disease, but have now recovered.

He said his daughters “bounced back” after having sore throats for a couple of days. But for Johnson and his wife, he said they both had a “rough go.”

He urged his 196 million Instagram followers to wear masks and avoid "politicizing" the pandemic.

The coronavirus pandemic has brought Hollywood to a virtual standstill, with movie productions only recently re-starting in Los Angeles under strict conditions and with skeleton crews.



Turki Alalshikh Honored as ‘Most Influential Personality of the Decade’ at MENA Effie Awards

Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Turki Alalshikh Honored as ‘Most Influential Personality of the Decade’ at MENA Effie Awards

Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (Asharq Al-Awsat)

In a landmark global achievement, Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, was named the “Most Influential Personality of the Decade” during the MENA Effie Awards ceremony.

Theprestigious honor recognizes his transformative contributions to the Kingdom’s entertainment sector and his pivotal role in its development and international prominence.

The MENA Effie Awards, renowned for celebrating impact and creativity across the Middle East and North Africa, distinguishes individuals whose efforts have delivered exceptional and lasting contributions over the past decade.

Alalshikh’s recognition underscores his status as one of the most influential figures in global entertainment and reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing impact on the international cultural and entertainment landscape.

Under his leadership, the General Entertainment Authority has played a key role in enhancing the quality of life in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. His efforts have established a world-class entertainment ecosystem, bolstering the national economy and fostering sustainable development.

Since the launch of Riyadh Season 2024 in October, spearheaded by Alalshikh, the event has attracted unprecedented global attention. In less than a month, approximately 6 million visitors attended, showcasing the event’s extraordinary appeal to both local and international audiences.

The season features thousands of events, ranging from concerts and art exhibitions to theater performances and family-friendly activities. Riyadh Season 2024 includes five main zones—Boulevard World, Kingdom Arena, Boulevard City, The Venue, and Al-Suwaidi Park—each offering a distinctive and immersive experience.

During its opening week, the season set a record with 2 million visitors, highlighting the public’s enthusiasm for this eagerly awaited event.