Amazon to Recast Kratos in God of War TV Show Following Ryan Hurst’s Injury

Amazon is working on a TV adaptation of the 2018’s God of War title, with filming already underway this year, alongside several new franchise entries currently in development by Santa Monica Studio. But the show is now facing a recast—and not just any character, but Kratos himself, the face of the franchise.

According to Deadline, Ryan Hurst, who plays Kratos in the series, tore a bicep during filming and now needs urgent surgery followed by a lengthy recovery. Amazon has told the casting team to find a new actor for the role quickly. It's a tough blow for Hurst, who called it an honor to land the role, even though his look had drawn mixed reactions from some fans when the production was first announced. At this point, it is unknown who might replace him.

EXCLUSIVE: Prime Video’s God Of War will have a new actor playing Kratos as the lead role in the high profile fantasy drama series after Ryan Hurst was seriously injured on the set of the PlayStation video game adaptation.

It is also worth noting that Amazon has already renewed God of War for a second season, and Hurst has likely already shot several scenes for season one. That leaves the creators with another challenge—explaining to viewers why Kratos suddenly looks different. CGI and makeup can only do so much, and if the new actor doesn't resemble Hurst, it could throw off a lot of fans. Hopefully it won't affect the show's future.

As for the games, Santa Monica Studio is working on God of War: Laufey, which the studio has teased could launch next year. They're also developing the God of War Trilogy Remake, announced at February's State of Play and still in the early stages of development.

Amazon's God of War was originally scheduled to release in 2027, but with Hurst's injury, that premiere could now postponed. For now, Amazon hasn’t made any official statements on this matter.