Sacha Baron Cohen has backtracked on his earlier admission that he used Ozempic to achieve his new muscular physique. The 53-year-old actor initially credited the diabetes drug, along with a private chef and personal trainer, for his transformation in a Men’s Fitness UK cover story. However, he later denied taking the medication, stating he achieved his body 'the honorable way' by paying a personal trainer.
Cohen’s original Instagram post on Wednesday read: 'Some celebs use Ozempic, some use private chefs, others use personal trainers. I did all three.' The following day, he retracted that statement, writing: 'Despite reports, I did not take Ozempic. I got this body the honorable way. Paying a personal trainer a lot of money.'
The comedian, best known for his Borat character, debuted his buff look in shirtless photos for the magazine. Comedian Chelsea Handler questioned whether the images were AI-generated, but Cohen insisted they were real, joking on Instagram: 'I really am egotistical enough to do this.' He also quipped about a 'mid-life crisis' and replacing beer with protein shakes.
Cohen’s trainer, Alfonso Moretti, praised the actor for following his plan and achieving the cover. According to Deadline, Cohen sought advice from Matthew McConaughey, who recommended Moretti. The trainer described Cohen’s initial physique as 'a ruler, straight up and down' but saw him as 'an athlete in hiding.'
Cohen’s new look coincides with his role as Mephisto in the Marvel series Ironheart. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige confirmed Cohen will reprise the role in future projects. The actor’s transformation also comes a year after his split from ex-wife Isla Fisher, with whom he shares three children.
