Their Bond: More Than Just Work
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Family Ties: Tanoai Reed is not just Johnson’s stunt double—he’s his cousin. They’ve been doubling together since The Scorpion King (2002), forming a relationship that transcends the set. WikipediaMensXP
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“Like Family”: On the set of the 2006 film Gridiron Gang, when budget constraints threatened Reed’s involvement, Johnson paid his full stunt rate out of his own pocket—and famously told him, “You’re more than just a stunt double, you’re like family.” CBR
Appreciation in Action
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A Gift with Heart: In a deeply moving moment, Johnson surprised Reed (who thought he was doing a behind-the-scenes interview) with a brand-new, custom pickup truck. Reed was visibly moved—tears and all. People.comEntertainment Tonight
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Public Gratitude: Johnson’s heartfelt Instagram message highlighted Reed’s unwavering commitment:
“Not only does Tanoai represent our family and my career with relentless commitment and passion… Love you uso and thank you for the blood, sweat, tears and years.” People.comMen’s Health
A Two-Decade Legacy
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Nearly 20 Years Together: As of around 2019, Reed had served as Johnson’s stunt double for nearly two decades—adapting his training and physique to match Johnson’s roles and physical demands. GQNetflix
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Rigorous Training: Reed often follows Johnson’s workout regime, training five days a week to ensure they look identical on-screen and ready for stunt work. GQMen’s Health
Reflections from the Fan Community
Reddit users offer resonant praise:
“Stuntpeople are really the unsung heroes of the movie industry… to be able to double someone like the Rock, wh
o is dummy thicc, you have to hit the gym hard. What a legend.” Reddit
“Seriously… Dude was down to earth and friendly AF.” Reddit
In Summary
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Blood and Brotherhood: Tanoai Reed is Johnson’s cousin and de facto on-screen twin, doubling for him since The Scorpion King.
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From Budgets to Bonds: Johnson personally ensured Reed was paid for Gridiron Gang, reinforcing their bond.
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Gifts from the Heart: A surprise truck revealed just how deeply Johnson values Reed’s loyalty and talent.
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Physical Synchrony: Their decades-long collaboration requires not just skill but constant physical alignment and mutual respect.
Would you like to explore more about their most daring stunts or the injuries Reed has endured over the years?
