“Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Blade Runner 2049” star Dave Bautista has revealed that he’s gained 20lbs while training for his role as Kratos in the live-action “God of War” TV series at Amazon Prime.
Bautista was set for the role in August and replaces Ryan Hurst, who was originally set as Kratos before he tore a bicep while performing a stunt on set in late June, four months into the shoot.
The series paused production immediately and went on hiatus. Rather than wait for Hurst to recover, which could take a year with that kind of injury, Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM Studios opted to recast the role.
Bautista was seen as ideal as his extensive background as a wrestler would allow him to step into a physically demanding role with limited preparation. The actor, who has slimmed down in recent years, had been bulking up again for the “Highlander” remake which wrapped earlier this year.
Both seasons of the “God of War” series, based on the hit PlayStation franchise, are being shot back-to-back and that remains the plan. All scenes featuring Hurst will now have to be reshot.
The cast also includes Callum Vinson as Atreus, Mandy Patinkin as Odin, Ed Skrein as Baldur, Max Parker as Heimdall, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson as Thor, Teresa Palmer as Sif, Alastair Duncan as Mimir, Jeff Gulka as Sindri and Danny Woodburn as Brok.
Ronald D. Moore serves as showrunner, executive producer, and writer.
WWE Legend Batista reveals he put on 20 POUNDS of muscles for his upcoming ‘GOD OF WAR’ project. THE ANIMAL IS JACKED https://t.co/MrKpQIKZlQ
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) November 1, 2026
