Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson recently brought some joy to students from Apalachee High School, where a tragic shooting earlier this month left four people dead and nine others injured.
On Saturday, Johnson shared a series of photos and videos on Instagram, documenting his time with members of the school’s football team. He reflected on the importance of smiles and laughter in the healing process, writing, “Sometimes one of the best ways to start healing is through joy and laughter.”
Earlier this month, 14-year-old Colt Gray was charged with four counts of felony murder after what prosecutors called the deadliest U.S. school shooting since the March 2023 attack at Covenant School in Nashville. Two students and two teachers, including assistant football coach Richard Aspinwall, lost their lives.
Gray is set to be tried as an adult and, if convicted, could face life in prison. His father, Colin Gray, is also facing charges, including second-degree murder and cruelty to children, as he allegedly bought the gun used in the shooting.
Johnson described the shooting as an “unimaginable tragedy” and expressed his admiration for the students he met. “I didn’t know what to expect when I met them, but I was blown away by their spirit and energy,” he wrote. “I could see their pain, but they’re incredibly strong and resilient.”
The visit took place at the Atlanta soundstages where Johnson is currently filming, though he didn’t mention the project he’s working on. In one of the photos, a sign honoring Coach Aspinwall was visible, reading, “We love you Coach A.”
“I can’t imagine what these players and everyone at Apalachee High are going through, but I’m here in any way I can be to support them and their families as they start to heal,” Johnson shared. He also hinted that he plans to attend the team’s first home game of the season.
In a follow-up post, Johnson expressed how much it meant to him to see the students smile and have fun, saying, “It made my heart full.”
