Matt Damon has undergone a remarkable transformation for his role in Christopher Nolan's upcoming film, The Odyssey, set to premiere on July 17, 2026. In a recent podcast episode, Damon revealed that he slimmed down to his high school weight of 167 pounds to portray his character effectively. The actor attributed his weight loss to a strict diet, which involved eliminating gluten and a rigorous training regimen. He compared the dedication required for his preparation to that of professional athletes, emphasizing how such a disciplined lifestyle became a routine throughout his training. Damon mentioned that he has not reintroduced gluten into his diet and has even discovered gluten-free beer since completing the film.

Damon's transformation is part of the film's significance as it marks Nolan's first project filmed on IMAX 70mm film. The Odyssey adapts Homer's classic epic poem and features a star-studded cast, including Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, and Zendaya, promising an exciting cinematic experience for audiences.

What inspired Matt Damon to adopt a gluten-free diet for his role in The Odyssey?

Damon's decision was influenced by a specific recommendation from his doctor, which he followed to enhance his fitness for the film. The combination of this dietary change and his extensive training allowed him to achieve the physique Nolan desired for the character.