Sacha Baron Cohen, known for his comedic roles as Borat and Ali G, has undergone a dramatic physical transformation for his role as Mephisto in the Disney+ series Ironheart. The actor, now gracing the cover of Men's Fitness, displays a chiselled physique that he humorously attributes to a 'mid-life crisis'. His new look, complete with oiled-up abs, marks a departure from his earlier, more schlubby on-screen personas.
Cohen's transformation is part of a trend among comic actors who bulk up for Marvel roles, only to find limited screen time. While Chris Pratt successfully transitioned from Parks and Recreation to a leading role in the MCU, Kumail Nanjiani's rigorous training for The Eternals resulted in a minor part. Similarly, Cohen's Mephisto appeared in just one episode of Ironheart, a show that made little cultural impact.
Despite the minimal payoff, Cohen has embraced the change with characteristic humour. On Instagram, he joked about using Ozempic, private chefs, and personal trainers, adding, 'This is not AI. I really am egotistical enough to do this.' His candid self-deprecation has been praised as a masterclass in handling a drastic image overhaul.
The transformation also signals a potential shift away from comedy for Cohen, following his dramatic role in Disclosure. Whether Mephisto returns in future MCU projects remains uncertain, but for now, the image of a shredded Sacha Baron Cohen is likely to endure.
