During a recent appearance on The Tonight Show, Josh Hartnett shared an unexpected piece of advice he received from Matt Damon while filming the highly anticipated movie Oppenheimer. Hartnett, who portrays nuclear physicist Ernest Lawrence in the film, revealed that Damon cautioned him against gaining weight for the role—a warning that came a bit too late for Hartnett.
“I gained about 30 pounds for the role, and he was like, ‘You’re never gonna get that off again, man,’” Hartnett recounted to host Jimmy Fallon. The actor described Damon’s advice as “unhelpful,” especially since he had already committed to the weight gain for his character.
Damon, known for his own dramatic physical transformations for various roles, shared his philosophy on weight management with Hartnett. He advised, “Don’t gain weight over 40,” emphasizing the challenges that come with shedding extra pounds as one ages. Hartnett recalled Damon’s words, explaining that once weight is gained, it becomes increasingly difficult to lose it as the body tends to revert to its previous state.
Hartnett took Damon’s advice in stride, humorously noting, “Thanks, Matt. Thanks for telling me this now. I’ve already gained it.” This exchange highlights the often-overlooked pressures actors face when preparing for roles that require significant physical changes.
Matt Damon is no stranger to the rigors of weight fluctuation for film roles. He has undergone extreme transformations in the past, including losing weight to portray a drug-addicted war veteran in Courage Under Fire and gaining weight for his role in The Informant! In recent years, he has opted for body prosthetics to achieve different looks, as seen in the 2023 film Air, where he worked with director Ben Affleck to create a more relatable character.
The conversation between Hartnett and Damon sheds light on the broader issue of body image and the expectations placed on actors in Hollywood. As the industry continues to evolve, the dialogue around weight gain and loss for roles remains a pertinent topic, especially as more actors share their experiences and challenges.
Hartnett’s experience serves as a reminder of the physical and mental toll that such transformations can take. The pressure to conform to certain body standards can lead to long-lasting effects on an actor’s self-esteem and overall health. As Hartnett navigates his role in Oppenheimer, he joins a growing list of actors who are vocal about the realities of weight management in the film industry.
In a world where body image is often scrutinized, Hartnett’s candidness about his weight gain and Damon’s advice highlights the importance of open conversations about health and wellness. The film industry is gradually recognizing the need for a more compassionate approach to body image, allowing actors to embrace their bodies without the fear of judgment.
As Hartnett continues to reflect on his journey in Oppenheimer, he remains grateful for the support and camaraderie of his fellow actors, including Damon. Their shared experiences on set foster a sense of community, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.
In conclusion, the advice Matt Damon offered Josh Hartnett serves as a valuable lesson for actors and audiences alike. It emphasizes the importance of self-care and the need to prioritize health over societal expectations. As the film industry evolves, it is crucial for actors to advocate for their well-being and challenge the norms surrounding body image.
Source: Entertainment Weekly
