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Henry Cavill, quite rightfully so, is often considered the epitome of the male form. One of the most visually appeasing actors in the industry, Cavill has also proven that he is indeed much more than a pretty face.
However, somewhat surprisingly, the British actor’s rise to fame wasn’t without its challenges. Early in his career, Cavill faced a demoralizing incident during the production ofThe Count of Monte Cristo(2002), a $75 million adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel. Producers of the film not only demanded he lose weight for his role but chose an unconventional and, arguably, inappropriate way to convey this.
Henry Cavill was not happy when producers said this to his mom
InThe Count of Monte Cristo, Cavill, then just 19 years old, played Albert Mondego, the son of Mercédès (Dagmara Dominczyk). The role was significant for the young actor, marking his first major Hollywood production. However, Cavill’s excitement quickly turned sour.
In an interview,Henry Cavillrevealed that the producers, unsatisfied with his physique, approached his mother rather than addressing him directly. They asked her to inform Cavill that he needed to lose weight to secure the role. Recalling the moment, Cavill said, (via SlashFilm)
They took her aside to tell her that I really needed to lose weight in order to get the part. And she had to tell me. I was like, ‘If I’m overweight, why can’t they tell me themselves!’ I was really pissed off.
Despite the unconventional and hurtful request, Cavill proved his determination. He managed to lose a stone and a half (21 pounds) in a short period, ensuring he met the producers’ demands.
Henry Cavill was called names due to his weight, as a kid
Cavill’s weight concerns didn’t start in Hollywood. As a child, he was often teased about his size, earning him the nickname “Fatty Cavill.” These experiences left a lasting impression, shaping his relationship with his body and his self-esteem. He admitted in an interview, (via Slash Film)
I was always conscious of my weight afterwards. I’ve had girlfriends in the past who have said, ‘No, really, your weight’s fine, you look great,’ but I just didn’t believe them.
The incident duringThe Count of Monte Cristoauditions only exacerbated his insecurities. However, it also served as a turning point, and kickstarted a career that continues to reach new heights, today.The Count of Monte Cristobecame a critical and commercial success, grossing over $75 million globally.
The Count of Monte Cristois available to stream on Amazon Prime.
Rishabh Bhatnagar
Editor/Reviewer
Articles Published :315
Rishabh Bhatnagar is an Entertainment and pop culture journalist/editor with Fandom Wire. He has more than 6 years of experience working for multiple major platforms and is himself an avid consumer of worthwhile content. A natural storyteller, Rishabh has a unique way with words and is always looking to improve, as a storyteller, writer, and a journalist.
