Prime Video’s highly anticipated live-action God of War series has hit a major setback, as star Ryan Hurst will no longer portray Kratos following a serious injury sustained during production.
According to a report from Deadline, Hurst tore his bicep while performing a stunt on set in Vancouver. The injury required surgery, and with an extended recovery expected, the production has made the difficult decision to recast the iconic Spartan warrior rather than wait for the actor to return.
The decision reportedly comes after several episodes had already been completed. As a result, scenes featuring Hurst as Kratos will need to be reshot once a replacement is cast, adding another delay to one of Prime Video’s biggest upcoming adaptations.
Hurst was announced as Kratos earlier this year, bringing an interesting connection to the franchise after previously providing the voice and motion capture performance for Thor in God of War Ragnarök. His casting was met with excitement from fans, especially after first-look images showcased his transformation into the legendary Ghost of Sparta.
God of War [sony entertainment]
The series, developed by Amazon MGM Studios, Sony Pictures Television, and PlayStation Productions, is based on the acclaimed 2018 God of War video game. It follows Kratos and his son Atreus as they embark on an emotional and dangerous journey across the Nine Realms to fulfill the final wish of Kratos’ late wife, Faye.
The cast also includes Callum Vinson as Atreus, Mandy Patinkin as Odin, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson as Thor, Ed Skreinas Baldur, Teresa Palmer as Sif, Max Parker as Heimdall, Alastair Duncan as Mimir, Danny Woodburn as Brok, and Jeff Gulka as Sindri. Ronald D. Moore serves as showrunner, with the series already receiving a two-season order before filming began.
No replacement actor has been announced, and there is currently no updated release window for the series. Production is expected to resume once a new Kratos has been cast and the previously completed scenes are reshot.
