News Summary
Benedict Cumberbatch shared insights about his challenging diet and exercise routine for his role as Doctor Strange during a podcast episode. His diet, characterized by five meals and high-protein snacks, raises concerns about food waste and sustainability in Hollywood. Cumberbatch emphasizes the importance of eco-friendly practices in the film industry, advocating for reduced single-use plastics and responsible consumption. Alongside his commitment to health, he highlights the benefits of his physical training and the resources available to him within the Marvel franchise.
Los Angeles – Benedict Cumberbatch recently shared insights about his demanding diet and exercise routine while preparing for his role as Doctor Strange during an episode of the podcast “Ruthie’s Table 4.” Cumberbatch, who has portrayed the superhero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe since 2016, expressed mixed feelings about the rigorous requirements of his role, describing his diet as “horrific.”
The actor’s preparation involves consuming five meals a day, supplemented by high-protein snacks such as cheese and crackers, or almond butter and crackers. To maintain energy and meet the physical demands of the role, his diet also includes “a couple of boiled eggs.” Cumberbatch noted that the process can be uncomfortable as he often eats beyond his appetite. He emphasized the environmental impact of such consumption, raising concerns about the irresponsibility of wasting food, stating he could feed a family with the amount he consumes for his role.
Aside from his dietary struggles, Cumberbatch spoke positively about his exercise regimen, describing it as “great.” He highlighted the benefits of the physical training, which not only enhances his strength and stamina but also improves his posture and boosts his confidence. He expressed enthusiasm for the transformation of his body for his acting roles, underscoring the importance of physical fitness in his profession.
Cumberbatch also acknowledged the advantages that come with working in the Marvel franchise. This includes access to resources such as a professional chef, who prepares meals tailored specifically to his dietary needs, making the transformation process more manageable despite its challenges.
The actor has appeared in several films within the Marvel universe, including notable titles such as Doctor Strange (2016), Thor: Ragnarok (2017), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), Avengers: Endgame (2019), Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022). He is set to reprise his role in the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday, which is scheduled for release in December 2026.
In addition to discussing his dietary practices, Cumberbatch shed light on broader sustainability issues within the film industry. He described Hollywood as a “grossly wasteful industry,” attributing this wastefulness to excessive energy consumption required for filming activities such as transportation and lighting. Cumberbatch called for more eco-friendly practices to be adopted in the film industry, urging for initiatives aimed at reducing single-use plastics on set.
Cumberbatch is actively pushing for sustainability measures, advocating for changes that align with more environmentally friendly filmmaking. As a producer, he has taken steps to implement practices that minimize the environmental footprint of film production. In keeping with his commitment to health and well-being, Cumberbatch also shared that his preferred comfort food is kale, which he enjoys preparing with olive oil, lemon juice, and chili flakes.
As audiences await his future appearances in the Marvel franchise, Cumberbatch’s emphasis on health, sustainability, and responsibility in both his personal practices and the film industry underscores a growing awareness of environmental issues in Hollywood.
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Additional Resources
- Men’s Health UK
- Us Magazine
- Entertainment Weekly
- Wikipedia: Benedict Cumberbatch
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Benedict Cumberbatch
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