Jake Johnson, known for his roles in New Girl and indie comedies, opens up about his latest film The Dink, a pickleball comedy that required intense athletic training despite his complete lack of experience with the sport. In this exclusive interview, Johnson reveals why he took on the role of Dusty Boyd, a former tennis pro turned pickleball underdog, and how the project became a welcome escape from political turmoil.
Jake Johnson's Pickleball Journey
Johnson admits he had zero experience with pickleball before signing on to The Dink. Yet the film demanded months of real-life training in both pickleball and tennis to convincingly portray a professional player. He compares the experience to WWE wrestling: "They call it fake wrestling. The outcome is there, but you still have to wrestle." The physical demands were intense, but Johnson embraced the challenge.
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Why Pickleball? Why Now?
The script came from writer Sean Clements, who became obsessed with pickleball after playing with a group of competitive older women in Beverly Hills. Johnson was drawn to the film's lighthearted, old-school comedy—a deliberate choice made just before the 2024 US presidential election. "I wanted to make a movie that feels a little old school, there's no messaging, it's not trying to teach people anything," he says.
Comparison: Pickleball vs. Tennis vs. WWE
| Aspect | Pickleball (The Dink) | Tennis | WWE Wrestling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Training Required | Months of drills | Years of practice | Intense choreography |
| Physical Intensity | Moderate | High | High (staged) |
| Entertainment Value | Fun, social | Competitive | Dramatic, scripted |
Key Takeaways from the Interview
- Johnson quit smoking pot after finding New Girl too scary to watch while high.
- He emphasizes the importance of perseverance in both acting and sports.
- The film features a Ben Stiller cameo, adding to its comedic pedigree.
- Johnson sought a feel-good project to counter divisive political climate.
- He praises the competitive spirit of older women in Beverly Hills pickleball circles.
More on Johnson's Career and Personal Life
Beyond pickleball, Johnson reflects on his career longevity and the lessons learned from Prince, who once gave him unexpected advice. He also discusses how fatherhood has changed his perspective on work and fame. The actor remains grounded, focusing on projects that bring joy rather than adding to societal noise.
FAQ
Did Jake Johnson really learn pickleball for The Dink?
Yes, Johnson underwent months of real-life training in pickleball and tennis to convincingly play a former tennis pro in the film. He had no prior experience with the sport.
Why did Jake Johnson stop smoking pot?
Johnson revealed that watching New Girl while high was too scary for him, so he decided to quit marijuana altogether.
Who else stars in The Dink?
The film features a cameo by Ben Stiller and stars Jake Johnson as Dusty Boyd, alongside a cast of comedic talents.
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