Dave Bautista is officially stepping into the role of Kratos in Prime Video’s upcoming live-action God of War series. The former WWE star and Guardians of the Galaxy actor will replace Ryan Hurst, who was forced to leave the production after suffering a serious injury while filming. Variety reports that Bautista is now set to lead the Amazon series, while reports suggest that the actor has closed his deal for the role.
In brief
- Dave Bautista has officially been cast as Kratos in Prime Video’s God of War series.
- Ryan Hurst exited after tearing his bicep while performing a stunt on set.
- Production is expected to restart with Bautista, meaning previously filmed Kratos scenes will need to be reshot.
- Prime Video has already ordered two seasons of the adaptation.
Dave Bautista Is the New Kratos in God of War
Bautista was first reported to be in talks for the role earlier in August, but the deal has now been finalized. He will take over one of PlayStation’s most recognizable characters as Amazon MGM Studios and Sony Pictures Television attempt to get production back on track.
The casting makes plenty of sense from a physical standpoint. Bautista spent years as a professional wrestler before establishing himself as an actor with roles in Guardians of the Galaxy, Dune, Blade Runner 2049, and Knock at the Cabin. His combination of size and dramatic experience could make him an interesting fit for the older and more restrained version of Kratos seen in the Norse saga.
Why Did Ryan Hurst Leave the God of War Series?
Hurst suffered a torn bicep while performing a stunt during production. The injury required surgery and reportedly would have kept him from returning to filming for several months, potentially pushing production into 2027. Amazon and Sony instead decided to recast Kratos.
The situation is particularly unfortunate considering Hurst had already undergone a major physical transformation for the role. He also has history with the franchise, having portrayed Thor in God of War Ragnarök.
Several episodes had already been filmed before production stopped, meaning scenes featuring Hurst will now have to be reshot with Bautista. Production is expected to resume in Vancouver around mid-October.
God of War Series Will Adapt the Norse Saga
Prime Video’s God of War adaptation has received a two-season order and will closely follow the story introduced in 2018’s God of War. The series centers on Kratos and his son Atreus as they journey to spread Faye’s ashes while navigating the dangers of the Norse realms. Ronald D. Moore serves as showrunner, writer, and executive producer.
A release date for the God of War TV series has not yet been announced.
