Benedict Cumberbatch has candidly shared the gruelling dietary regimen he endured to transform into his emaciated character in the Oscar-nominated film 'The Power of the Dog'. The acclaimed actor described the experience as one of the most physically demanding challenges of his career.
In a recent interview, Cumberbatch revealed that he drastically reduced his calorie intake to achieve the lean, almost skeletal appearance required for his role as the tormented rancher Phil Burbank. 'It was brutal,' he admitted. 'I had to cut out almost everything I normally enjoy – no carbs, no sugars, just the bare minimum to function.'
The actor, known for his disciplined approach to roles, explained that the extreme diet affected not only his body but also his mental state. 'You're constantly hungry, irritable, and exhausted,' he said. 'It changes how you think and feel, which ironically helped me tap into Phil's brooding intensity.'
Despite the hardships, Cumberbatch acknowledged that the sacrifice was worth it. The film, directed by Jane Campion, earned critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, with his performance being hailed as one of his finest.
Fans have since praised his dedication, though Cumberbatch jokes that he’s 'never going on a diet like that again' – opting instead for a well-balanced lifestyle post-filming.
