Former MCU Star’s God Of War Kratos Casting Can Be A Game-Changer For Prime Video
A former MCU star is reportedly being eyed for the role of Kratos in Prime Video's upcoming adaptation of the God of War games. Previously, Ryan Hurst, of the Sons of Anarchy fame, was cast to play the protagonist of the upcoming game adaptation. However, he has reportedly departed from the series after a behind-the-scenes injury.
Hurst even posted a picture of himself in Kratos' full look on social media, which convinced many that he was perfect for the role. While it is unfortunate that Ryan Hurst will not play Kratos in Prime Video's God of War anymore, some intriguing developments surrounding the character's new casting potentially make the series even more exciting.
As reports suggest, Dave Bautista is being eyed for the part after Ryan Hurst's exit. While it has not been confirmed whether Bautista has been finalized as the new Kratos, his MCU history and playing physically imposing characters make him an intriguing choice for the role.
After His MCU Run, God Of War Could Become Bautista’s Next Big Franchise
Dave Bautista was a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe for almost a decade as Drax the Destroyer. He appeared in more than five movies as the character. After his departure from the franchise, he has appeared in a few other franchise movies, like Dune, Blade Runner 2049, Army of the Dead, and Glass Onion. However, none of these have given him long-term roles that last for multiple installments.
Even on the small screen, the former WWE star has had a relatively smaller presence. Since Prime Video has already ordered two seasons of God of War, his casting as Kratos could give him his next big franchise role after the MCU. Based on the games' lore, the God of War live-action show could have a multiple-season run if all goes well for it in the first two seasons.
Bautista has already displayed his ability to show immense screen presence and perfectly portray dramatic characters on the big screen in several movies. By leading God of War as Kratos, he could finally have another opportunity to lead and build a long-running character arc that lasts for multiple installments. If the series is successful, Kratos could even become the most defining role of his career.
Why Bautista Seems Like The Perfect Casting Choice For Kratos
As exciting as Bautista's casting may seem, many have expressed concerns surrounding the recent changes in his on-screen appearance. Many viewers pointed out that Dave Bautista is not in "WWE shape" anymore and has significantly slimmed down since departure from the MCU. It must be noted, though, that even after his recent transformation, the actor still weighs over 200 pounds at 6 feet 3 inches.
Prime Video's God of War is also skipping the Greek era from the games and jumping ahead to the Norse mythology arc from 2018's God of War. In the Norse arc, even the game's version of Kratos looks relatively mature, which makes Bautista a great fit for the part.
In the past, Dave Bautista has also displayed his ability to portray emotionally dense characters like Sapper Morton in Blade Runner 2049 and Leonard in Knock at the Cabin. He seems to have the range to perfectly capture Kratos' physical intensity and internal conflict in Prime Video's God of War adaptation. Hopefully, his casting will be finalized soon, and we will get to see him as Kratos in God of War's live-action show.