Benedict Cumberbatch: Doctor Strange Prep Was ‘Horrible’ – And He’s Calling Out Hollywood’s Wasteful Practices
Published July 23, 2025 at 11:05 AM PST – archyde.com – In a candid revelation that’s sending ripples through Hollywood and the Marvel fandom, Benedict Cumberbatch has detailed the intensely challenging physical preparation he underwent for his iconic role as Doctor Strange. The actor, appearing on the latest episode of the podcast “Ruthie’s Table 4,” described the experience as “horrible,” despite acknowledging the positive results. This breaking news also includes Cumberbatch’s pointed criticism of the industry’s pervasive food waste, a concern he’s increasingly vocal about.
The Grueling Transformation for the Sorcerer Supreme
To embody the mystical Doctor Strange, Cumberbatch embarked on a rigorous regimen of extreme dieting and intense physical training. He revealed he was consuming a staggering five meals a day, driven by the need to build a “superhero musculature.” While he concedes the end result – increased strength, confidence, and endurance – was beneficial, the journey to get there was far from pleasant. “The exercise is interesting and the end result is pleasant since we feel strong and confident. We stand better. Thanks to exercise and food, you have incredible endurance. But to get there, it’s horrible,” Cumberbatch shared.
This isn’t the first time actors have spoken about the pressures of physical transformation for roles. Chris Pratt famously underwent a dramatic weight loss for Guardians of the Galaxy, and Gal Gadot’s training for Wonder Woman was equally demanding. However, Cumberbatch’s description highlights the mental toll alongside the physical strain. The pressure to conform to a specific body type, even for a character wielding magical powers, remains a significant issue within the industry.
Beyond the Physique: A Spotlight on Hollywood’s Food Waste
But Cumberbatch’s revelations didn’t stop at his personal experience. He also used the podcast appearance to address a growing concern: the rampant food waste within the Hollywood system. “I don’t like it personally. I find it awful to have to eat beyond your appetite,” he stated, directly linking his own experience with the broader issue of unsustainable practices.
Hollywood’s catering often involves overproduction to ensure abundance, leading to significant amounts of perfectly good food being discarded. This practice clashes sharply with growing global concerns about food security and environmental sustainability. The actor’s comments are likely to fuel further debate about responsible production practices and the need for more eco-conscious approaches on film and television sets. Organizations like ReFED are actively working to reduce food waste across the US, and Cumberbatch’s voice adds significant weight to their cause.
Benedict Cumberbatch: A Life Beyond Doctor Strange
Cumberbatch’s career has spanned a diverse range of roles, from Sherlock Holmes to Alan Turing in The Imitation Game. He’s consistently demonstrated a commitment to challenging and complex characters. Married to director Sophie Hunter, with whom he has a son, Cumberbatch often keeps his personal life relatively private, making these candid insights particularly noteworthy. His willingness to speak out on issues like food waste positions him as a thoughtful and engaged public figure.
The actor’s comments serve as a potent reminder that even the glamorous world of Hollywood isn’t immune to real-world problems. His experience with the demanding physical requirements of a blockbuster role, coupled with his critique of industry waste, offers a valuable perspective on the pressures and responsibilities faced by those in the spotlight. As audiences become increasingly aware of sustainability issues, expect to see more actors using their platforms to advocate for change. Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest updates on this story and continued coverage of celebrity news, entertainment, and social impact.
