Ralph Fiennes has undergone a remarkable physical transformation for his latest role as Odysseus in the 2024 film The Return, showcasing a muscular physique that has captivated fans and critics alike. The actor, best known for his portrayal of Lord Voldemort in the Harry Potter series, has shared his fitness journey on social media, leading to a flurry of humorous comments and puns related to his iconic character.
Fiennes, now 62 years old, trained intensively for this role, working closely with personal trainer Dan Avasilcai. The rigorous training regimen included waking up at 5:30 AM for daily weight training sessions followed by cardio workouts. Fiennes notably adhered to a strict diet, eliminating bread, sweets, and alcohol, and focusing on protein-rich meals, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables. He successfully dropped from 80 kg to 73 kg before filming began, maintaining this regime throughout the shoot.
His transformation was so striking that it prompted a wave of reactions on social media. Fans quickly dubbed him "Swoldemort," a playful reference to his famous character. One user humorously remarked, "Harry Potter is F--ed," while others made light of his new physique with comments like, "Lord Voldemort is ripped and ready for a rematch with Harry Potter." The playful banter continued, with fans suggesting he could take on roles like Alfred in the upcoming DC Universe films, showcasing a keen interest in his future projects.
Fiennes' dedication to his role as Odysseus is evident in the film, which tells the story of the Greek hero's return home to his wife, Penelope, played by Juliette Binoche. The film, directed by Uberto Pasolini, was released in December 2024 and has received positive reviews, boasting a 77% rating from both critics and audiences on Rotten Tomatoes.
During the preparation for his role, Fiennes revealed that Pasolini had specific requirements for his physique. The director wanted him to look like "a bit of old rope" rather than a typical gym-goer. Pasolini expressed initial concerns that the actor's intense training might lead to a body that looked overly sculpted, rather than one that conveyed the lived experience of a warrior. He stated, "At the beginning, I have to confess, I was slightly suspicious that there was so much protein going in and so much exercise that we would have a body that looked exercised instead of a body that was consumed, a lived body. There is no gym in ancient Greece."
Fiennes' commitment to authenticity extended beyond just his physical appearance. He also embraced the character's narrative arc, which involves a man who has endured hardship and struggle. In discussing the role, he mentioned, "I definitely locked onto the beggar that Homer writes. In this version, we leaned into the beggar: the man who arrives emaciated and starved and also internally emaciated. That interior evisceration - his sense of self has been smashed. And that was something it offered, which I loved."
To achieve the desired look, Fiennes not only engaged in physical training but also made sacrifices, including dehydrating himself to attain a veiny aesthetic for the character. However, Avasilcai cautioned against this method, emphasizing the importance of proper hydration. He explained, "It’s not sustainable. In a normal routine, it’s important to hydrate properly."
Fiennes’ transformation has drawn attention not just for its physicality but also for the dedication and discipline it required. Avasilcai noted, "You can’t train a 60-year-old like you would a 20-year-old. Their muscles, bones, and joints are different. I kept Ralph’s workouts strict and safe. Form is everything." He emphasized the importance of individualized training plans, stating, "The main goal should be to become the best version of yourself — don’t compare yourself to other people."
Despite the intense physical demands of the role, Fiennes expressed enthusiasm about working with Binoche again, having previously acted alongside her in Wuthering Heights (1992) and The English Patient (1996). He reflected on their long-standing friendship, saying, "I feel our friendship has just got deeper. I feel Juliette sees me. All my faults, all the things... Over the years, she’s become a mother of two children and has a life that I’m aware of, but I don’t know her children."
Fiennes' performance and transformation have sparked conversations about aging in Hollywood, with many fans expressing admiration for his commitment to fitness at an age when most actors are not expected to take on physically demanding roles. His journey serves as an inspiration, proving that with dedication and the right guidance, significant physical transformations are possible at any stage of life.
As the film continues to gain traction, Fiennes' portrayal of Odysseus stands out as a testament to the actor's versatility and commitment to his craft. His fitness journey has not only revitalized his career but has also engaged a new generation of fans, eager to see what he will tackle next.
