Paul Rudd Ant-Man: During a recent podcast, Paul Rudd, renowned for portraying Scott Lang/Ant-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, revealed the challenges he faced with an extremely restrictive diet to prepare for the role.
In the podcast mentioned by THR, via DiscussingFilm on X, Rudd shared insights into his exercise and dietary regimen to transform into the size-shifting superhero. He humorously expressed the intensity of his diet, stating, When I was having to train for the Ant-Man movie, and I was on a very restrictive diet, my reward was sparkling water. Thats how horrible that diet was. I was like, Alright, Im gonna have some sparkling water now, Ive earned it.'”
Despite the strict diet, Rudd reflected on the experience without bitterness, acknowledging that once immersed in the routine, it wasn’t excessively challenging. He emphasized not being bothered by consuming “really boring food” and appreciated the high energy levels he experienced while adhering to the diet.
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However, Rudd confessed to feeling inadequate compared to some of his Marvel Studios colleagues, many of whom are known for their muscular physiques. He humorously remarked, I think
I worked out harder than anyone, I would eat better than everyone, and I looked worse than all of them. I had to work out all the time, eat perfectly, just to look kind of bad. Not even like great.
Reflecting on filming Avengers: Endgame with Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Rudd shared his perspective, stating, [Hemsworth is] working out, and then you stand next to a guy like that, and I just think, Well, whats the point of any of this?
I can never achieve that. He acknowledged the different body types required for their respective roles, noting the positive aspect that he was portraying Ant-Man and not Thor. Despite his efforts to work out, he humorously concluded, “And it didnt work.”
Rudd first appeared as Scott Lang in 2015s Ant-Man and has continued to portray the character in various sequels and crossovers, including the recent Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, marking the beginning of Phase Five in the MCU.
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