Dwayne Johnson Celebrates Jumanji Wrap for Danny DeVito with Heartfelt Tribute
Dwayne Johnson marked the end of filming for Danny DeVito's portion of the latest Jumanji installment with an emotional message and behind-the-scenes photos. In a social post on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 (ET), Johnson paid public tribute to DeVito's contribution to the franchise and described the experience as a privilege.
Johnson’s personal note: gratitude and affection
Johnson's message combined warmth, admiration and a touch of levity. He thanked DeVito for his "anchoring heart and joy" across the franchise and wrote that to work with — and learn from — the veteran actor had been an honor. The post included candid set images showing the two stars together; one picture captured a spontaneous, affectionate moment as Johnson kissed DeVito's bald head, an image that underscored the pair's on-set rapport.
Even in the affectionate tribute, Johnson kept the tone playful. He teased DeVito about maintaining his signature gleam, urging him to "please keep smilin’ and please keep exfoliating the top of your head. " That mix of sentiment and humor resonated with followers, reflecting the chemistry that helped make earlier franchise entries both funny and heartfelt.
Fan reaction and franchise buzz
The announcement reignited excitement about the upcoming Jumanji sequel. Fans responded enthusiastically online, praising the casting choice and expressing surprise and delight at DeVito's involvement. Many highlighted how the genuine friendship between co-stars contributes to the films' appeal, noting that off-camera camaraderie often translates into on-screen chemistry.
Social conversations also reflected nostalgia for the franchise's blend of action and comedy, with commenters speculating about what DeVito's role might bring to the narrative. The affectionate tone of Johnson's message—equal parts tribute and joke—helped frame the news as both a professional milestone and a personal celebration for the cast and crew.
What the wrap means for the production
With DeVito's scenes wrapped, the production moves further into post-production and preparation for the next phases of completion. Cast milestones like this often signal that principal photography for major players is winding down, allowing the creative team to focus on editing, visual effects and sound design. For audiences, such updates typically accelerate anticipation and provide the earliest glimpses of what to expect from the finished film.
Johnson closed his note by expressing hope that he and DeVito will "tell more stories together, " suggesting that the bond formed on this project could lead to future collaborations. Whether this will translate into additional films or other creative ventures remains unconfirmed, but the public display of mutual respect positions both actors as enthusiastic champions of the franchise's next chapter.
As the film world digests the news, attention will turn to official release timelines and further casting announcements. For now, Johnson's tribute stands as a clear sign of admiration for DeVito's craft and a reminder of the personal connections that fuel big-screen collaborations.
