Austin Butler detailed his intensive physical transformation to develop a baseball player’s backside for his role in Darren Aronofsky’s upcoming film ‘Caught Stealing’, as revealed in a Men’s Health interview, showcasing his commitment to authenticity through targeted training and diet.
Austin Butler, a 33-year-old actor known for his method acting and transformative roles in films like ‘Elvis’ and ‘Dune: Part 2’, undertook this project under the direction of Darren Aronofsky. Butler worked with trainer Beth Lewis, who previously prepared Hugh Jackman for ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’, to achieve the specific physique required for the character Hank Thompson, a former baseball star.
The primary goal was to emulate the thick, muscular glutes characteristic of professional baseball players, as Aronofsky provided Butler with reference photos of players’ buttocks to illustrate the desired look. This preparation was essential for portraying the character’s athletic background believably in the film set in 1998 New York City.
Over a six-month period, Butler engaged in rigorous training, performing exercises like hip thrusters to target glute development. He trained six to seven days a week, focusing on movements that allow for heavy loading and effective muscle growth, which are crucial for achieving the baseball player aesthetic.
Butler’s diet played a significant role in his transformation; he consumed a high-calorie intake, including foods like chicken kabobs, omelets, occasional steaks, and specifically pizza and beer to align with his character’s bartender lifestyle. This approach helped him gain approximately 35 pounds, though not all was muscle, ensuring a realistic portrayal.
The transformation was successful, with Butler noting that he outgrew some of his clothing, such as Celine pants, demonstrating the physical impact of his efforts. This highlights his dedication to roles and may influence how actors approach physical preparations for characters in the future.
The revelation has sparked discussions about actor preparations and body image in Hollywood, emphasizing the lengths to which performers go for authenticity. It also underscores Butler’s reputation as a versatile actor, potentially leading to more diverse roles and accolades.
Looking ahead, ‘Caught Stealing’ is an upcoming film, and Butler’s performance is highly anticipated. His ability to undergo such transformations could set a precedent in the industry, inspiring similar dedication and possibly affecting casting decisions for physically demanding roles.
Source: https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/a65783981/austin-butler-butt-workout/