Hollywood actor and former WWE star Dave Bautista has officially been cast as Kratos in Prime Video’s live-action adaptation of the popular “God of War” video game franchise.
According to PEOPLE, Amazon confirmed Bautista as the replacement for “Sons of Anarchy” actor Ryan Hurst. Ryan Hurst was forced to leave the role after suffering a serious bicep injury while performing a stunt.
Bautista becomes new God of War
Hurst had originally been announced as Kratos in January and began filming the ambitious television adaptation in Vancouver.
Production suffered a major setback in June when the actor tore his bicep during filming and required surgery.
His expected recovery period eventually proved too long for the show’s production schedule, leading Amazon to recast its main character.
Bautista is best known internationally for playing Drax in Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” films. He is also known for his appearances in the “Dune” franchise. He will now inherit the role.
Four episodes face extensive reshoots
The casting change comes after four episodes of the series had already been filmed with Hurst playing Kratos.
Those episodes are now expected to undergo extensive reshoots to incorporate Bautista into the story.
The series follows Kratos and his son Atreus as they embark on a journey to scatter the ashes of Faye. Faye is Kratos’ wife and Atreus’ mother.
Their journey forces the father and son to confront gods, monsters and their complicated relationship. At the same time, they must navigate a world inspired by Norse mythology.
Star-packed cast remains
Callum Vinson is playing Atreus, while Sonya Walger has been cast as Faye.
Other members of the ensemble include Mandy Patinkin as Odin, Ed Skrein as Baldur, Teresa Palmer as Sif and Ólafur Darri Ólafsson as Thor.
Production is expected to resume with Bautista as Kratos, although Prime Video has not announced a premiere date.
For Bautista, the role adds another major franchise character to a career that has increasingly shifted from professional wrestling. Additionally, his career now moves further into high-profile Hollywood productions.
