Dave Bautista in Talks to Replace Ryan Hurst as Kratos in Amazon Prime Video Series

Amazon Prime Video is reportedly in negotiations with actor Dave Bautista to assume the role of Kratos in its upcoming live-action adaptation of the 2018 video game God of War and its 2022 sequel Ragnarök. The casting change follows Ryan Hurst’s departure after he suffered a torn bicep while performing a stunt on set, prompting Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM Studios to recast the part because of the lengthy recovery period.

The series, which follows the Greek god of war as he escorts his late wife’s ashes across the Norse realms with his son Atreus, had already filmed four of the ten planned episodes before the injury occurred. Hurst, who had bulked up by 40 pounds for the role after voicing Thor in the game, was originally set to portray Kratos.

Bautista, known for his work in both action and dramatic roles, has been mentioned by fans and industry observers as a potential fit for the physically demanding part. If confirmed, his casting would allow production to restart in the fall, although no official release date has been announced.

"The decision to recast was driven by the need to keep the schedule on track," a spokesperson for the production said.

The series remains in development with no confirmed premiere window.