“Portia Woodman is THE straight up GOAT bad ass who leads with grit, heart and pride. She’s not only an icon in sports, but an iconic beacon of pride for our Polynesian culture as well.
“Having lived in New Zealand and playing rugby as a kid, I’ve admired Portia for years, and I’m pumped and proud that we at Seven Bucks Productions have the honour of telling her story.”
Dwayne Johnson on the blue carpet for the live-action Moana special event in Sydney. Photo / NZ Herald
Johnson said Woodman-Wickliffe’s achievements extended beyond sporting success.
“To achieve superstardom and greatness at anything is very rare, but to achieve them all while remaining a good human being, who leads with kindness, respect and mana, that’s even rarer and that’s the magic of life,” he wrote.
“To me, the kindness, respect and mana part is the stuff that matters most.
“What a story. Can’t wait to tell it.”
The post revealed the documentary will involve New Zealand-based Pango Productions and film-maker Zoe McIntosh, who directed a documentary about Kiwi MMA fighter Israel Adesanya in 2023.
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe near the try line. Photo / Photosport.
Johnson first mentioned the project in June on the blue carpet at the Moana premiere in Sydney, where the Herald’s Jenni Mortimer asked him to name his favourite rugby player of all time.
The actor, who spent part of his childhood in Auckland, immediately pointed to Woodman-Wickliffe.
“Portia, I mean … come on,” he said.
“We’re doing a documentary on her.”
Johnson was ushered into the event before providing further details.
Woodman-Wickliffe also attended the premiere.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in women’s rugby, Woodman-Wickliffe has enjoyed a decorated international career with the Black Ferns and has been one of the sport’s most recognisable stars globally.
While Johnson’s latest post sheds more light on the project and those involved, no release date or production details have been announced.