The 83rd Annual Golden Globes First-Time Nominees luncheon in Beverly Hills became the stage for a classic Hollywood visual gag on Wednesday, as the towering figure of Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson stood alongside his considerably shorter close friend, Kevin Hart.
A Staggering Stature Difference
The wrestler-turned-actor, who stands at an imposing 6 feet 5 inches, literally looked down on the comedian, who measures around 5 feet 5 inches even with shoes on. Despite the foot of height separating them, the pair were all smiles as they paused for photographs on the red carpet at the Maybourne Beverly Hills, showcasing the camaraderie that has defined their long-term friendship and professional partnership.
Johnson, 53, cut a dapper figure in an off-white suit, which he paired with a light purple satin shirt and white loafers. Hart, 46, was equally sharp in a dark grey suit, a white button-up shirt, and sleek black loafers, adding a small brooch to his left lapel for a final touch of flair. At one point, the two were seen sharing a hearty laugh together, clearly enjoying the festivities.
Celebrating First-Time Nominations
The luncheon's purpose was to honour actors receiving their first-ever Golden Globe nominations, a milestone both Johnson and Hart have now achieved. Johnson is nominated for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama for his leading role in the 2025 sports biopic 'The Smashing Machine'.
Meanwhile, Hart has secured a nod in the Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy or Television category for his Netflix special 'Kevin Hart: Acting My Age'. The 2026 Golden Globes ceremony itself is scheduled for Sunday, 11th January, and will be hosted by comedian Nikki Glaser.
A Friendship Forged in Film and Fun
The duo's bond, frequently highlighted by their contrasting statures, has been cemented through multiple collaborations. They have starred together in films like 'Central Intelligence' (2016) and 'Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw' (2019), and are both cast in an upcoming, untitled 'Jumanji' sequel slated for release in 2026.
Johnson has never been one to shy away from poking fun at his friend's height. During an appearance on The Graham Norton Show last year, while discussing his role in 'Red One', he joked, "I really noticed what it was like to have to look up to others for a change – I noticed that this is what Kevin Hart's life is!" The banter continued when Johnson posed with NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal in June, captioning the photo, "Got me out here lookin' like Kevin Hart."
Beyond the jokes lies a deep and supportive friendship. Johnson has spoken emotionally about the car accident Hart suffered in Malibu in 2019, which left the comedian with a fractured spine. "When I heard the news my heart stopped and I lost my breath," Johnson recalled in an interview later that year. "Kevin's one of the good ones. He's one of the good eggs."
The luncheon was also attended by a host of other first-time nominees, including:
- Britt Lower (Severance), nominated for Best Actress in a TV Series – Drama, in a stylish white ensemble.
- Chase Infiniti, nominated for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy for 'One Battle After Another', in a striking orange gown.
- Rhea Seehorn, nominated for Best Actress in a TV Series – Drama for 'Pluribus', in a chic floral dress.
- Tramell Tillman (Severance) and Wagner Moura (The Secret Agent), both nominated for acting awards.
As the event progressed, guests were seen mingling warmly. Johnson was photographed in cheerful conversation with Rhea Seehorn, while later, Seehorn and Britt Lower posed together for a snapshot, capturing the celebratory spirit of the afternoon for Hollywood's newest Golden Globe contenders.
