Dwayne Johnson looks almost unrecognizable in new photos from the set of Lizard Music. Photographed filming in Brooklyn on October 20, 2026, the actor appears with gray hair, deep wrinkles, and extensive prosthetic makeup to portray Chicken Man, an eccentric character in his seventies.
The transformation isn’t just another Hollywood makeover. Johnson is playing Chicken Man, an eccentric character in his seventies, in director Benny Safdie’s upcoming fantasy adventure. Seeing the usually muscular action star dressed as an elderly man has naturally made the film’s behind-the-scenes pictures a talking point.
Dwayne Johnson’s Lizard Music Transformation as Chicken Man
Johnson was photographed filming in Brooklyn wearing a bucket hat, oversized coat, blue shirt, and patterned tie. His prosthetic makeup completely changes his facial appearance, making him look decades older.
The transformation was handled by makeup artist Kazu Hiro, who previously worked with Johnson on The Smashing Machine. The actor also underwent a significant physical transformation for the role, continuing his recent interest in performances that take him beyond familiar action movie territory.
Chicken Man is an eccentric character with an unusual companion. He’s an unusual older man whose closest companion is an elderly chicken, making him one of the more eccentric roles Johnson has taken on.
What Is Dwayne Johnson’s Lizard Music About?

Based on Daniel Pinkwater’s 1976 children’s book, Lizard Music follows a young boy who discovers mysterious lizards playing music through a strange television broadcast. His investigation eventually leads him to Chicken Man and an extraordinary adventure.
The movie reunites Johnson with Benny Safdie after The Smashing Machine, and its cast also includes Rachel McAdams, Colman Domingo, Jeff Goldblum, Alicia Silverstone, and Regina Hall.
FAQs About Lizard Music
Why does Dwayne Johnson look so old in Lizard Music?
Johnson uses extensive prosthetic makeup, gray hair, wrinkles, and age spots to portray Chicken Man, an eccentric character in his seventies.
Who does Dwayne Johnson play in Lizard Music?
Johnson plays Chicken Man, an unusual older man whose closest companion is an elderly chicken.
Who is directing Lizard Music?
Benny Safdie directs the fantasy adventure, reuniting with Johnson after their collaboration on The Smashing Machine.
When will Lizard Music be released?
Lizard Music is scheduled for a theatrical release on December 25, 2027.
Is Lizard Music based on a book?
Yes. The film is based on Daniel Pinkwater’s 1976 children’s novel of the same name.
With a Christmas Day 2027 theatrical release planned, Lizard Music is already attracting attention for its unusual premise and Johnson’s remarkable appearance. If these first photos are anything to go by,
audiences can expect to see Johnson in one of his most unusual roles, when the film finally arrives.