Matt Damon, a seasoned actor known for his dedication to roles, often undergoes significant physical transformations for his movies.
In a recent anecdote from the set of Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” his co-star Josh Hartnett shared Damon’s cautionary advice about weight gain, shedding light on the actor’s own experiences and the broader implications of such drastic changes.
Josh Hartnett’s Transformation for ‘Oppenheimer’
For his role as Nobel Prize-winning physicist Ernest Lawrence in “Oppenheimer,” Josh Hartnett gained 30 pounds. This transformation was crucial for authenticity, but it came with a stern warning from Matt Damon.
Hartnett recounted on “The Tonight Show” that Damon repeatedly told him, “You’re never gonna get that off again, man.” The warning was well-intentioned but came too late, as Hartnett had already put on the weight.
Damon’s Personal Experience with Weight Fluctuations
Damon’s advice to Hartnett stems from his own experiences. The actor has undergone extreme physical changes for various roles throughout his career.
One notable instance was for the 1996 film “Courage Under Fire,” where he lost 40 pounds to play a soldier with PTSD. This drastic weight loss led to a health scare, with a doctor warning him that such changes could have permanently damaged his heart.
Gaining Weight for ‘The Informant!’
In 2009, Damon gained 30 pounds for the satirical film “The Informant!” This role required him to portray a less physically fit character, showcasing his versatility as an actor. However, the weight gain came with its own set of challenges, reaffirming his belief in the difficulty of losing weight after a certain age.
The Rigorous Regimen for Jason Bourne
For his role in the Jason Bourne series, Damon followed a strict 2,000-calorie-a-day diet and intense physical training. This regimen was aimed at maintaining a lean, muscular physique, demonstrating his dedication to embodying the character. The contrast between his training for Bourne and the weight gain for other roles highlights the diverse demands of his profession.
Advice from Experience: Weight Gain Over 40
Hartnett recalled Damon’s rule of thumb: “Don’t gain weight over 40.” Damon believes that as the body ages, it becomes increasingly difficult to shed extra pounds. This advice, although somewhat humorous in its delivery, underscores a practical truth about metabolism and weight management later in life.
The Impact of Weight Changes on Health and Career
The physical transformations required for acting roles can have significant health implications. Damon’s experiences, both gaining and losing weight, highlight the potential risks involved. The strain on the body from such fluctuations can lead to long-term health issues, as seen with his heart scare post-“Courage Under Fire.”
Career Resurgence and Future Prospects
Despite the challenges associated with weight changes, actors like Damon and Hartnett continue to push the boundaries for their craft. Hartnett’s performance in “Oppenheimer” garnered critical acclaim, contributing to the film’s success and his own career resurgence. Damon’s willingness to share his experiences and advice reflects the camaraderie and mentorship that often exists among actors.
Conclusion
Matt Damon’s warnings about weight gain are rooted in his extensive experience and personal health challenges. His advice to Josh Hartnett during the filming of “Oppenheimer” serves as a reminder of the physical demands and potential risks associated with method acting.
As both actors continue to thrive in their careers, their stories offer valuable insights into the complexities of physical transformations in Hollywood.