Dave Bautista takes over 'God of War' role

Dave Bautista takes over 'God of War' role Kratos is getting a new face — and this one already knows his way around a fight. Dave Bautista, 57, has officially taken over the role of Kratos in Prime Video’s God of War, replacing Ryan Hurst after the actor suffered an on-set injury, Amazon confirmed Thursday, August 20. Bautista is now listed among the cast on Amazon MGM Studios’ official website, with production on Season 2 expected to resume this fall. The recasting follows Hurst’s injury in June, when the Sons of Anarchy star reportedly tore his bicep while performing a stunt and later underwent surgery.  He had previously revealed his excitement about playing the legendary video game character. “Used to play as him. Now I get to be him,” Hurst wrote on Instagram.  “Grateful to pick up the axe, and honored by the fans who made this story legendary.” Hurst’s exit became official in July after his recovery timeline reportedly clashed with the show’s production schedule.  The series had already filmed four episodes, but extensive reshoots are now expected. Hurst had also undergone a major physical transformation for the role, reportedly adding 40 pounds of muscle to become the iconic Spartan warrior. The series follows Kratos and his son Atreus, played by Callum Vinson, as they journey to spread the ashes of Kratos’ late wife, Faye.  Their adventure forces Kratos to figure out how to become a better father while Atreus tries to teach him how to be, well, more human. The Season 2 cast also includes Mandy Patinkin, Ed Skrein, Max Parker and Ólafur Darri Ólafsson. Amazon has not yet announced a premiere date. For Bautista, the next challenge is clear: pick up the Blades of Chaos and try not to make Kratos fans angry.