Actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has denied his ‘Fast & Furious’ costar Vin Diesel’s ‘manipulative’ post that hints that he is returning to the franchise.

In an interview with CNN published Wednesday, Johnson, 49, addressed an Instagram post made by Diesel in November calling Diesel’s move “an example of his manipulation”.  The 54-year-old actor publicly asked Johnson to rejoin the beloved movie franchise.

Also Read:Dwayne Johnson surprises his mother with a brand new Cadillac SUV. Watch

“I was very surprised by Vin’s recent post,” said Johnson.

“This past June, when Vin and I actually connected not over social media, I told him directly — and privately — that I would not be returning to the franchise. 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. I privately spoke with my partners at Universal as well, all of whom were very supportive as they understand the problem.”

“I didn’t like that he brought up his children in the post, as well as Paul Walker’s death. Leave them out of it,” Johnson continued, reports people.com.

Also Read: Who are 2021’s highest-paid Hollywood stars?

“We had spoken months ago about this and came to a clear understanding. My goal all along was to end my amazing journey with this incredible Fast & Furious franchise with gratitude and grace.”

“It’s unfortunate that this public dialogue has muddied the waters. Regardless, I’m confident in the Fast universe and its ability to consistently deliver for the audience, and I truly wish my former costars and crew members the best of luck and success in the next chapter,” Johnson added.