Dwayne Johnson Addresses Backlash From Maui Fundraiser

Dwayne Johnson has spoken out regarding backlash received after asking individuals to donate to a Maui wildfire recovery fund. 

He partnered with Oprah Winfrey to launch the People's Fund for Maui on August 31st. They started by pledging a combined $10 million. However, their plea for the public to contribute prompted some criticism.

“When we first launched the fund, there was some backlash that came with launching the fund, and I want to address that backlash. I get it, and I completely understand, and I could have been better. And next time, I will be better.”

He said he understands that “money ain’t falling out of the sky, and it’s not growing on trees,” and that many Americans are "living paycheck to paycheck" right now.

"I get it. I know what it's like. I've lived paycheck to paycheck. When you are living paycheck to paycheck, the last thing you want to hear is someone asking you for money, especially when the person asking you for money already has a lot of money."

He went on to explain he could've handled things better and the situation was a learning experience.

"I’ve never launched a fund before, but I’m a quick study."

In the caption he thanked his followers for giving him constructive feedback.

"You always tell me the truth — good or bad — I’ll always appreciate and protect that straight talk between us — You have my word to always listen, learn, grow and do better."

Before addressing the criticism, he shared a positive update regarding the fund.

"I have some great news, some awesome news actually, that I'm very grateful to share with you guys. The thousands and thousands of survivors, the families, have now, over the past couple of weeks, started to receive their first round of funds. They're receiving their money, and I gotta tell you, it's been the most gratifying and moving thing."

At the time of the launch, Dwayne and Oprah explained that adults who lost their primary homes in the Lahaina and Kula fires would be eligible to receive $1,200 a month to help them get back on their feet.

Oprah shared the idea was inspired by Dolly Parton's long history of philanthropy.

"I read this article that Dolly Parton had given money in her community, and I said, 'I think this is the answer.'"

They went on to explain they wanted the money to go directly into people's hands "with some real immediacy."

“People being able to have their own agency, being able to make decisions for themselves about what they need and what their family needs — that’s our goal, is to get that to the people now."

In a press release, Oprah referenced her firsthand experience with the devastation caused by the wildfires, after she visited the area and learned from residents financial assistance was their most pressing need.

“I have been meeting with people throughout the community that were impacted by the fires over the last few weeks, asking what they most needed and how I could be of service. The main thing I’ve been hearing is their concern about how to move forward under the immense financial burden."

"The community has come together in so many wonderful ways, and my intention is to support those impacted as they determine what rebuilding looks like for them."