Santa Monica, California: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson didn't make a household name for himself by conforming to someone else's idea of who he should be, an approach he encouraged others to take while accepting a top honor at the MTV Movie & TV Awards.
The actor, producer and former professional wrestler said embracing himself allowed him to carve his own space in the entertainment industry and become one of its biggest stars. He accepted MTV's generation award with fanfare - running down the stage amidst a blend of hip-hop and Samoan dancers with screens reading The Rock in flaming letters behind him - during the show, which was taped Saturday in Santa Monica, California, and aired Monday night.
"The most powerful thing we can be is ourselves," said Johnson, who is half-black and half-Samoan. He also reminded the audience of its responsibility to reach back for others in the midst of success.
Johnson, 47, wasn't the only one to use his platform during the show for empowerment.
Brie Larson, who won the best fight award for her battle against Minn-Erva (Gemma Chan) in 'Captain Marvel', brought her stunt doubles, Joanna Bennett and Renae Moneymaker, on stage to recognize them for their work.
READ | When Dwayne Johnson got goosebumps
Inclusivity and celebration seemed to be the themes of the night. Host Zachary Levi reminded everyone to nurture the kid in themselves and keep following their dreams into adulthood. Lizzo and Bazzi kept the crowd on its feet during their lively musical performances of 'Juice' and 'Paradise', respectively.
The upbeat nature of the night didn't stop some winners from getting serious.
Lana Condor managed to bring thoughtfulness to one of the night's more amusing awards.
Daniel Levy shared a similar sentiment after winning the best comedic performance award for 'Schitt's Creek'.
Jada Pinkett Smith accepted the trailblazer award, presented to her by 'Girls Trip' co-star Tiffany Haddish, and assured attendees that each of them are trailblazing by leading the way and fighting for others.
READ | Bella Thorne shares her own nudes post threatened by hacker
Women took home several of the night's biggest awards, including best performance in a show (Elisabeth Moss, 'The Handmaid's Tale') and in a movie (Lady Gaga, 'A Star is Born'). The show features gender-neutral categories.
Sandra Bullock touched the audience during her speech for most frightened performance for 'Bird Box'.
Bullock also said she was happy her son could see her accept her award in a room with "real life superheroes" like Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel.
"I'm sure he will notice that they are women, just like his mama," she said.
With inputs from APTN
