Dave Bautista has gained 20 pounds (approx. 9 kg) to play Kratos in the 'God of War' live-action series. Having lost 75 pounds a few years ago, his bulked-up physique has drawn significant attention.
On November 1, Bautista posted a video on his Instagram Story showing off his muscles while wearing a 'God of War' t-shirt. The video featured text stating he gained 20 pounds along with his current weight of 250 pounds (approx. 113 kg). Previously, on September 1, he revealed that it had been three weeks since he resumed weight training and that he needed about two more months to reach his goal.
During his WWE career, Bautista typically performed at around 290 pounds. When filming the movie 'Knock at the Cabin,' he even exceeded 300 pounds. His character, Leonard, was a teacher with a gentle personality despite his intimidating appearance, requiring a physically imposing frame to intimidate others.
However, the weight gained in a short period remained a burden even after filming concluded. Bautista noted that the more weight he lost, the more he liked his appearance on camera. He also felt that being smaller looked more natural when sharing the frame with other actors. Afterwards, through Brazilian jiu-jitsu, cardio exercises, and diet management, he lost about 75 pounds, bringing his weight down to around 240 pounds by 2024.
Upon taking on the role of Kratos, he began bulking up once again. Bautista has long been fan-cast as an actor suited for the role. While news of his casting was largely welcomed, some questioned whether his slimmer post-weight-loss frame could portray Kratos' imposing figure. In this latest video, fans can see him bulking back up as he prepares for the role.
Prime Video's 'God of War' series, with Ronald D. Moore serving as showrunner, is filming two seasons back-to-back. The actor originally announced for the role of Kratos was Ryan Hurst. Following his casting announcement in January, filming began in Vancouver in February, but production was halted after Hurst suffered a torn bicep during a stunt scene in late June.
Waiting for his recovery following surgery would have pushed the resumption of filming into 2027. Amazon MGM Studios and Sony Pictures Television decided to recast the role, finalizing a deal with Bautista in August. All scenes featuring Hurst will be reshot. Filming was scheduled to resume on October 26, with an expected wrap date of April 1, 2027.
Bautista, a former WWE Champion, made a name for himself as an actor playing Drax in 2014's 'Guardians of the Galaxy'. In 2017, he left a strong impression despite a brief appearance as Sapper Morton in 'Blade Runner 2049'. He later reunited with director Denis Villeneuve to play Rabban in the 'Dune' series. Director M. Night Shyamalan, who directed 'Knock at the Cabin,' also cast Bautista after seeing him in 'Blade Runner 2049.' His role as Leonard in that film is considered one of his definitive performances highlighting his acting range.
Prime Video has not yet announced a release date for 'God of War'.
