When an actor undergoes a noticeable physical transformation for a film, the effort rarely goes unseen by audiences. Those changes often become a defining element of the performance and can even alter how a role is remembered. Some projects demand rigorous bodybuilding routines and strict diets, while others force performers to push their bodies toward extremes of weight, whether through excess or deficiency.
Brendan Fraser serves as a prime example. He has approached a wide range of characters through distinct physical forms that are often unrecognizable from one role to the next. From the athletic charm of George of the Jungle to the dramatic shift in The Whale, he embraced dramatic weight changes. In The Whale he reportedly gained and shed substantial mass to portray a morbidly obese teacher. Fraser explained that his preparation involved a period of sedentary living paired with a high intake of carbohydrates and comfort foods, a method that echoes the approach Christian Bale used for Shipwreck.
The Fraser transformation stands out in film history for its boldness, yet recent years have highlighted two other actors whose real lives mirror their on screen metamorphosis. Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman both shared extensive transformation processes on social media for the film Deadpool 3, the anticipated Marvel release scheduled for 2024. Their behind the scenes journeys underscore how far actors will go to embody iconic characters beyond the page.
‘Deadpool and Wolverine’
Both performers have long embraced physical preparation as part of their craft. Reynolds, known for his lean, athletic build, has previously undertaken intense regimens for roles like Blade, where he reportedly added substantial muscle mass through disciplined training. He trained with the same coach who works with his co-star, and the routines often included martial arts, weightlifting, and functional training designed to boost overall athleticism. Reynolds has often spoken about how demanding these preparations can be, noting that some sessions feel among the toughest he has experienced.
In the lead up to Deadpool 3, Reynolds trained under the guidance of a renowned Hollywood coach who has helped the actor through more than a decade of transformations. The goal extended beyond building impressive arms; it focused on agility, flexibility, and the ability to convincingly portray the anti hero once more. Reports describe a comprehensive program that targets multiple muscle groups in a single session to support a holistic, movie ready physique. The approach has resonated with fans worldwide, illustrating how a well-structured program can redefine a character decades into a franchise. Reynolds remains 46 years old and committed to sustaining a peak performance level for the screen.
steroid use
In terms of nutrition, Reynolds has stated that he did not follow a strict diet at the outset of his transformation. Instead, his plan emphasized whole foods consumed at regular intervals, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and a balance of nutrients that support endurance and recovery. The approach centers on steady fueling rather than drastic dietary bans, highlighting a practical path to sustained performance rather than rapid weight changes.
To portray Wolverine, Hugh Jackman dedicated himself to years of gym work and disciplined routines. His commitment earned widespread attention as he explained that the journey involved careful, age-appropriate training rather than risky shortcuts. Jackman has openly cautioned against the health risks associated with performance-enhancing substances. He has emphasized that his regimen was crafted with long-term wellbeing in mind, striking a balance between strength gains and safety for a career of demanding roles. Discussions around his preparation have often focused on training volume, progressive overload, and the adaptation of workouts to fit his evolving needs as he aged.
Earlier reports noted that Jackman followed a multi-phase program to embody Wolverine. The process included a high-volume training phase aimed at mass gain, followed by refinement to bring the character’s signature look to life. As audiences gear up for Deadpool 3, the two heroes appear with renewed energy and dramatically different physiques, inviting viewers to reassess their on-screen personas with fresh eyes.