Dave "Batista" Bautista is already getting serious about becoming Kratos.
The actor recently shared a glimpse of his physical transformation for Amazon's upcoming "God of War" TV series. His latest training video shows that he has started rebuilding the powerful physique expected from the legendary video game character.
Bautista officially joined the "God of War" cast last month. He has since begun an intensive weight-training routine for the role.
Dave Bautista's Kratos Transformation Has a Tight Deadline
In a video shared on Instagram, Bautista revealed that he had been lifting weights for three weeks. He also explained that he has roughly two months to get into the shape required to play Kratos.
Bautista's preparation comes with an unusually short timeline.
Actors taking on physically demanding action roles can sometimes spend six months or even a year preparing. Bautista has far less time.
The "God of War" series had already entered production earlier this year. Ryan Hurst was originally cast as Kratos and had begun filming the role.
Hurst reportedly suffered an injury during production. His recovery is expected to keep him unavailable until next year.
Amazon then decided to recast Kratos. Bautista was brought in to take over the role.
This change has put the actor on a demanding schedule. Production is reportedly expected to resume in October. Bautista therefore has only a short window to increase his size and strength.
Bautista Is Working to Build a Bigger Kratos Physique
The transformation is particularly noticeable because Bautista had recently taken a different approach to his physique.
The former professional wrestler had spent years maintaining a larger and more muscular build. His size became one of his defining features in both wrestling and action movies.
More recently, however, Bautista lost considerable weight and muscle.
His slimmer appearance led some fans to question whether he could still match the imposing look of Kratos. The character is known for his immense strength and muscular frame.
Bautista now appears focused on changing that perception. It's interesting to know that his dedication to physical fitness stays despite his age. He will need to make the most of the limited time available before production resumes.
Christopher Judge Also Considered the Live-Action Role
Bautista was not the only actor associated with the live-action version of Kratos, according to IGN.
Christopher Judge, the voice actor behind Kratos in the recent "God of War" games, previously revealed that he auditioned for the television role.
Judge eventually withdrew from consideration.
The actor, who is 62, explained that he did not want to take on the demanding physical requirements that would come with the part. The role would require an intense workout schedule, strict dietary discipline, and significant physical preparation.
Bautista has now accepted that challenge.
What 'God of War' Fans Said About Bautista's Kratos Role
Some of the Reddit comments about Batista's body transformation just come at the right time.
"Well im at least two years away from where Dave is now."
"I mean, Kratos is less muscular in God of War 4 (the series will adapt that game) so his shape looks OK for the role."
I figured Batista for just another crappy actor who used to be a wrestler. Then I watched Blade Runner. He set the whole tone of the movie and was insanely good. Very excited to watch anything he is in now."
"Batista is easily THE best wrestler turned actor (and yes that includes cena, rock, hogan, and stone cold). Even Cody Rhodes and Roman reigns are trying to act but they don't have IT."
"I love Dave Bautista, dudes got range, but can we please stop with these "ol reliable" actors because you're scared to take a fucking risk on someone else. I'm dead certain we're gonna get Hugh Jackman for 2 more movies they can't let these guys go and I understand their hype but shit, let go of the balloon."
