Matt Damon has recently revealed the secrets behind his impressive weight loss for his role in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film adaptation of The Odyssey. Portraying the legendary hero Odysseus, Damon, 55, joins a star-studded cast that includes Tom Holland as Telemachus, Robert Pattinson as Antinous, and Zendaya as Athena, along with Anne Hathaway, Elliot Page, Lupita Nyong’o, and Charlize Theron.
In a discussion on the New Heights podcast with NFL players Jason and Travis Kelce, Damon shared that Nolan’s vision for his character required him to be “lean but strong.” To achieve this physique, Damon worked closely with his doctor and eliminated gluten from his diet, resulting in a nearly 20-pound weight loss, bringing his weight down to 167 pounds. “I haven’t been that light since high school,” he noted, emphasizing the rigorous training and strict diet he adhered to in preparation for the role.
The Odyssey is set to hit theaters on July 17 and marks Damon’s third collaboration with Nolan, following their work together on Interstellar (2014) and the critically acclaimed Oppenheimer (2023), which has won multiple prestigious awards including seven Oscars. Damon described his experience making The Odyssey as “the best experience” of his career, calling the film “massively entertaining.” He highlighted the emotional depth of Odysseus’s journey, saying that Chris Nolan does not shy away from showcasing the character’s struggles.
Although anticipation is high for the film, it has not been without its controversies. Last year, Universal Pictures faced criticism from fans regarding the first look at Damon as Odysseus, particularly due to his costume. In an image released, Damon donned a traditional Spartan helmet with a red plume, which some critics noted deviated from the original descriptions in the text. This prompted discussions on social media about historical accuracy in costume design in film adaptations.
As the release date approaches, the excitement for The Odyssey continues to build and hopes are high for a fresh and compelling take on the classic tale. Damon’s dedication to the role and his transformation reflects the commitment and effort that actors often invest in their craft, promising a memorable cinematic experience for audiences.