Matt Damon confirmed that Canadian stunt performer Devyn Dalton doubled for him in key scenes of the upcoming action-fantasy epic The Odyssey. While Damon garnered attention for his physical preparation for the role, he clarified in a viral interview on the Happy Sad Confused podcast that the “greatest arms” featured in certain sequences belonged to the 34-year-old performer, not himself.
The Reality Behind the Stunt Work
The visual trickery required for The Odyssey relied on forced perspective to depict giant warriors known as Laestrygonians. Damon explained that production utilized stunt performers of varying heights to achieve the scale, ranging from seven-foot actors to those under five feet. Dalton, who stands four-foot-six, was cast as the double for these specific sequences.
“My double was a woman, a female stunt performer, who had the greatest arms I’ve ever seen,” Damon said during his conversation with host Josh Horowitz. Damon noted that while he performed the majority of his own scenes, the shots featuring the giants looming over his character required Dalton’s physical contribution. The actor recalled meeting Dalton in the catering tent during production, where he personally thanked her for her performance.
Did you know?
Devyn Dalton’s stunt and performance resume includes work on major productions such as The Last of Us, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, and Once Upon a Time.
Industry Recognition for Stunt Performers
Dalton, a Vancouver-based performer, expressed that the public acknowledgment from a lead actor of Damon’s stature is significant in an industry where women are often underrepresented. In an interview with CBC News, Dalton stated that the credit helps shine a light on the essential work stunt women perform when doubling for male leads.
The viral nature of the clip has generated a positive response, with Dalton noting that the support from young women and girls has been particularly impactful. She emphasized that celebrating athletic body types and the skill required for stunt work remains a priority for her career. Dalton shared behind-the-scenes footage from the Scottish Highlands set on her Instagram, thanking Damon for the opportunity.
Damon’s Physical Transformation
Despite the use of a double for specific action sequences, Damon underwent a rigorous training regimen to portray Odysseus. The actor told People that he returned to his high school weight of 167 pounds to meet the physical demands of the role. According to Damon, the transformation was achieved through a comprehensive lifestyle and dietary shift rather than unsustainable rapid weight loss.
The Odyssey, based on the ancient Greek epic, features an ensemble cast including Anne Hathaway as Penelope and Tom Holland as Telemachus. The production also features performances by Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong’o, and others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Devyn Dalton?
Devyn Dalton is a Canadian stunt performer, actor, and dancer based in Vancouver, B.C., known for her work on projects like The Last of Us and Percy Jackson and the Olympians.
Why did Matt Damon use a stunt double for his arms?
Damon used a double for scenes involving forced perspective to portray giant characters. Because the production required specific height ranges for these shots, Dalton was cast to perform the scenes.
How did Matt Damon prepare for his role in The Odyssey?
Damon stated he returned to his high school weight of 167 pounds through a dedicated diet and fitness lifestyle change, as reported to People.
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