Amazon’s live-action God of War adaptation has reportedly hit an unexpected setback after lead actor Ryan Hurst exited the production following a serious injury. With filming reportedly paused and a new Kratos now needed, former WWE star Braun Strowman has suddenly found himself at the center of fan speculation.
Although Amazon has yet to confirm a replacement, a series of social media posts from Strowman has fueled rumors that he could be stepping into the role of the Ghost of Sparta.
Ryan Hurst’s Exit Forces Production Changes
Ryan Hurst, best known for Sons of Anarchy and his role as Thor in God of War Ragnarök, was reportedly cast as Kratos for Amazon’s upcoming series. According to multiple reports, Hurst suffered a torn bicep while performing a stunt, requiring surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation period.
Rather than delaying production for several months, Amazon and Sony are said to have opted for a complete recast. Reports suggest Hurst had already filmed four episodes, raising questions about whether existing footage will be scrapped as production prepares to restart.
Neither studio has officially commented on the future of the completed episodes.
Braun Strowman Adds Fuel to the Fire
Speculation intensified after former WWE superstar Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) shared photos of himself dressed as Kratos across social media.
The timing caught fans’ attention for several reasons:
- He posted himself in full Kratos-inspired attire with captions hinting at the role.
- Days earlier, Scherr shared what appeared to be an Amazon Studios visitor pass.
- He later uploaded a workout video referencing Kratos’ famous line, “Boy.”
Individually, none of these posts confirm anything. Together, however, they’ve sparked widespread discussion that Scherr may at least be auditioning for the role.
Of course, if he had actually landed such a high-profile role, it’s unlikely Amazon would allow him to reveal it publicly before an official announcement.
Does Braun Strowman Fit the Role?
Physically, Scherr certainly resembles Kratos.
Standing well over six feet tall with an imposing build, shaved head, and thick beard, the former WWE champion naturally fits the character’s intimidating appearance. At 42 years old, he’s also younger than both Ryan Hurst and several other fan-favorite casting choices.
His wrestling background could also prove valuable, bringing years of stunt work, physical acting, and on-camera performance.
The bigger question is acting experience.
Unlike Hurst, whose career spans numerous acclaimed television dramas, Scherr has only a handful of acting credits. Critics argue that portraying Kratos requires far more emotional range than simply looking the part.
Fans Remain Divided
Reaction online has been mixed.
Some fans believe Scherr deserves an audition, pointing to his physical resemblance and professional wrestling experience as strengths for an action-heavy series.
Others remain skeptical, arguing that Amazon needs an accomplished dramatic actor capable of portraying Kratos’ complex personality rather than simply his intimidating physique.
Christopher Judge, who voices Kratos in the modern games, continues to be one of the community’s most requested choices. Other names frequently mentioned by fans include Dave Bautista, Alan Ritchson, Rory McCann, and Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson.
Amazon Hasn’t Revealed Its New Kratos Yet
Despite growing speculation, Amazon and Sony have yet to officially announce who will replace Ryan Hurst.
If reports are accurate, production is expected to resume later this year, meaning casting decisions may already be finalized behind the scenes. Until then, Braun Strowman’s cryptic social media activity remains just that—interesting speculation rather than confirmation.
Final Thoughts
The live-action God of War series has encountered a significant hurdle before its release, forcing Amazon to reportedly search for a new actor to portray one of gaming’s most iconic characters.
Braun Strowman may currently be the most talked-about candidate thanks to his recent social media activity, but no official casting announcement has been made. Whether Amazon chooses a Hollywood veteran, a professional wrestler, or surprises everyone with an unexpected name, fans will be watching closely to see who ultimately takes up the Leviathan Axe.
Leave a comment