It’s not unusual for actors to pack on some serious muscle for superhero roles. However, Chris Hemsworth’s intense training almost led to a costume catastrophe.
Preparing for a superhero role usually involves getting into peak physical shape and bulking up those muscles – and this is especially true when you’re portraying the mighty God of Thunder, Thor. However, it turns out that Chris Hemsworth, the actor behind Thor, took his muscle-building efforts to the extreme.
In an interview with the L.A. Times, the “Extraction” star revealed that just before filming began for the first “Thor” film in 2011, he participated in a costume fitting and realized that something was amiss with the iconic outfit (via Vulture). But was it the costume’s fault or his own?
Hemsworth had diligently followed the training program prescribed to him in preparation for the shoot, without really considering whether it might become a bit too much. When he attempted to don the suit, which he would go on to wear a staggering 13 times over the next decade (in solo films, “Avengers” adventures, and even a video game), he experienced a pinprick-like sensation and numb hands. The suit had become incredibly tight due to Hemsworth’s massive muscle gain, causing him to have circulation problems.
Director Kenneth Branagh (“A Haunting In Venice”) encouraged his star to dial back the intensity of his muscle-building regimen so he could comfortably fit into the costume when shooting commenced. When the first take was filmed, it fit like a glove. Thankfully, it was just a minor scare that had no lasting impact on the filming of Thor’s inaugural adventure or the future of the Marvel franchise.
As for what lies ahead for Hemsworth’s iconic role after “Thor 4: Love And Thunder,” it remains uncertain. However, in recent interviews, the 40-year-old actor has given fans hope for a return, as it’s not easy to bid farewell to a character that has so profoundly shaped his career.