Prime Video's live-action adaptation of God of War has officially recast its central role of Kratos, with Dave Bautista reportedly set to take over the part from Ryan Hurst. The former WWE star and Guardians of the Galaxy actor has reportedly closed a deal to lead the ambitious series, according to Variety.
This casting change comes after production faced a significant setback. Hurst, who was initially announced as Kratos in January, sustained a bicep injury while performing a stunt in late June. The injury necessitated surgery and a prolonged recovery period, prompting Amazon MGM Studios and Sony Pictures Television to recast the role to avoid further delays that could push production into 2027.
Filming had been underway in Vancouver for several months prior to the production halt, with some episodes reportedly already completed. These scenes are now expected to be reshot with Bautista. Production is targeting a mid-October restart.
The first season of the series is set to adapt the narrative of 2018's God of War, chronicling the journey of Kratos and his son Atreus as they travel to scatter the ashes of Kratos' late wife, Faye. The original announcement in January featured Hurst alongside Callum Vinson as Atreus, suggesting this pairing for the first season's story.
Beyond Kratos, the series may see further casting adjustments for its second season, which is planned to adapt God of War Ragnarök and its subsequent time jump. Prime Video is reportedly seeking older actors to portray Atreus and Thrud in Season 2, while Callum Vinson and Island Austin are slated to play the younger iterations of these characters in the first season.
An official premiere date for the God of War series remains unannounced. The production restart makes pinpointing a release window challenging, with a 2027 launch now appearing less likely and 2028 emerging as a more plausible timeframe.
Meanwhile, the broader God of War franchise continues to expand. God of War Laufey, a new PlayStation 5 title focusing on Faye, is scheduled for release on February 16, 2027. Santa Monica Studio has also confirmed that another new game starring Kratos is in development, alongside a remake of the original Greek trilogy.