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Dwayne Johnson announces true crime book project

Dwayne Johnson is co-authoring a book on Hawaii's mob history with Nick Bilton.

April 14, 2025 at 11:56 AM

The Rock to co-author true crime book about Hawaii mob boss to be adapted by Martin Scorsese

Dwayne Johnson is collaborating with Nick Bilton on a true crime book that will inspire a film by Martin Scorsese.

Dwayne Johnson partners with journalist for true crime book about Hawaii mob boss

Dwayne Johnson is set to co-author a nonfiction book focusing on a Hawaii crime syndicate active during the 1960s and 1970s. The book, announced via Johnson's Instagram, will be written in partnership with investigative journalist Nick Bilton and is already in the works. The yet unnamed title has been picked up by Crown, the Penguin House imprint, for publication and aims to explore the history of The Company, Hawaii's only notable mob led by Wilford “Nappy” Pulawa. A film adaptation directed by Martin Scorsese is also planned, featuring Johnson alongside Emily Blunt and Leonardo DiCaprio. Johnson remarked that the story encapsulates themes of power and identity and is deeply personal to him, reflecting on his family's connection to Hawaii's past.

Key Takeaways

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Dwayne Johnson collaborates with Nick Bilton on a true crime book.

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The book focuses on Hawaii's crime syndicate from the 1960s and 1970s.

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Martin Scorsese will direct a film adaptation of the book.

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The project explores themes of power and identity in Hawaiian history.

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Johnson emphasizes a personal connection to the story.

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The book aims to highlight cultural theft experienced by Hawaiian people.

"This isn’t just a gangster story – it’s about power, identity, and what was taken from the Hawaiian people."

Johnson emphasizes the deeper themes of the project beyond its crime narrative.

"The more exhaustive research we do... the more I shake my head at how wildly and profoundly connected we all were."

Johnson reflects on the historical connections he's discovering through research.

This collaboration signals not only Johnson's shift from acting to co-authoring but also highlights a rare focus on the history of organized crime in Hawaii. The narrative promises to resonate with audiences who are drawn to crime dramas, while also addressing deeper issues related to cultural identity. Johnson's involvement indicates a commitment to sharing the complexities and challenges faced by Hawaiian culture during that period. The combination of a renowned filmmaker like Scorsese and a blockbuster star like Johnson suggests potential for a major impact, both in literature and film.