Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has responded further to Vin Diesel's recent request that he re-join the Fast & Furious franchise. Speaking to CNN, The Rock said he was "very surprised" to see Diesel's post in November, in which Diesel said The Rock "must show up" to play Hobbs once again.

The Rock told CNN that he spoke privately with Diesel in June, and it was at this time that The Rock informed Diesel that he would not return to the series. Diesel making his statement publicly months later was a form of "manipulation," The Rock said.

"I was firm yet cordial with my words and said that I would always be supportive of the cast and always root for the franchise to be successful, but that there was no chance I would return," The Rock said. "I privately spoke with my partners at Universal as well, all of whom were very supportive as they understand the problem.