Hollywood superstar Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson once had his sights set on acquiring comic book publisher BOOM! Studios, but an unexpected business development ultimately prevented the deal from happening. Instead, Penguin Random House secured the acquisition, giving the publishing giant control of one of the comic industry’s notable independent publishers.
The surprising story was revealed by Ross Richie, co-founder of BOOM! Studios, who recently discussed the company’s sale and the potential involvement of Johnson. According to Richie, discussions about a possible acquisition involving the Hollywood star took place in 2021, when BOOM! Studios was attracting significant attention from comic book fans and entertainment companies.
The Rock Had Big Plans for BOOM! Studios
Dwayne Johnson’s interest in BOOM! Studios came during a period when the publisher was gaining attention through successful comic book projects, including BRZRKR, a series created by actor Keanu Reeves alongside writer Matt Kindt and artist Ron Garney.
Richie saw an opportunity to build something bigger by bringing a major Hollywood personality into comic book publishing.
He imagined Johnson using the company as a platform to attract leading Hollywood talent, introduce original comic book characters and develop interconnected fictional universes.
The idea was to create a publishing business that combined Hollywood creativity with the comic book industry’s established storytelling talent.
Johnson’s involvement could potentially have helped bring additional attention to original comic book properties and opened opportunities for future entertainment adaptations.
Why the Acquisition Never Happened
Despite the interest, the proposed deal never moved forward to completion.
Richie explained that timing became a major obstacle. Johnson had several other commitments, including football-related business ventures, while BOOM! Studios was receiving interest from other potential buyers.
The company could not afford to wait indefinitely for a possible agreement. With other buyers approaching, the opportunity eventually moved in a different direction.
As a result, Johnson missed the chance to become the owner of the comic book publisher.
Penguin Random House Eventually Acquired BOOM! Studios
In July 2024, Penguin Random House’s Random House Publishing Group announced an agreement to acquire BOOM! Studios.
The acquisition brought the comic book publisher into the Random House Worlds portfolio, expanding Penguin Random House’s presence in comics, graphic novels and licensed entertainment properties.
BOOM! Studios was founded in 2005 by Ross Richie and Andrew Cosby. Over the years, the publisher developed a strong portfolio of original stories and licensed properties.
Its notable titles include Something Is Killing the Children, Lumberjanes and BRZRKR, along with projects connected to popular entertainment franchises such as Dune, Power Rangers, Firefly and The Dark Crystal.
The acquisition allowed BOOM! Studios to retain its editorial and publishing independence while becoming part of a much larger publishing organization.
What Could Have Happened With The Rock?
The possibility of Johnson owning BOOM! Studios raises interesting questions about what the company might have become under his leadership.
Richie’s original vision involved using Johnson’s Hollywood connections to attract major creative talent and develop new comic book franchises.
Such a partnership could potentially have created opportunities for new characters, original comic series and entertainment adaptations for film and television.
However, the actual direction of the company is now tied to Penguin Random House’s publishing strategy.
Ross Richie Looks Toward His Next Project
Following the sale of BOOM! Studios, Richie has continued exploring new creative opportunities.
He is now working on a 200-page hardcover collection featuring Jack Kirby cover artwork beyond the legendary artist’s Marvel and DC work. The project is expected to launch through Kickstarter.
Although the potential partnership with Johnson never became reality, Richie still recognizes what the collaboration might have achieved.
The story offers an interesting look at how business timing, competing buyers and creative ambitions can shape the future of entertainment companies. For comic book fans, the idea of The Rock owning BOOM! Studios remains an intriguing example of what could have been.