The Amazon Prime Video live-action God of War series, one of the most anticipated video game adaptations, officially announced its lead actor this Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Actor Ryan Hurst, who already has a deep connection to the franchise, has been cast to play the iconic and vengeful Kratos. The production, which will primarily adapt the 2018 and 2022 games, still does not have a confirmed release date, but its relevance is immense as it brings one of the most award-winning video game sagas to a series format, promising to win over both longtime fans and a new audience.
The official announcement came directly from the studio, confirming rumors that had been circulating for months. The choice of Hurst is especially significant, as he is not a new face in the Norse universe of God of War. However, this time, he will switch sides in the pantheon: in the acclaimed God of War Ragnarök, released in 2022, the actor voiced and performed the motion capture for the powerful Thor, the story’s antagonist, a performance that even earned him a BAFTA nomination. Now, he takes on the mantle of the Ghost of Sparta, a character whose journey of vengeance and redemption captivated millions.
From Thor to Kratos: A Natural Transition
Hurst’s transition from a god of thunder to the god of war seems natural, given his prior experience with the mythology and the epic tone of the series. The producers are expected to explore the emotional complexity of Kratos, masterfully shown in the more recent games, where he deals with fatherhood and the weight of his bloody past. The series promises to dive into this duality, combining spectacular action with deep family drama, one of the elements that made the games so special.
Still, many details remain under wraps. The specific plot, the supporting cast – especially who will play Atreus, Kratos’s son – and the filming start date are details eagerly awaited. Thus, the fan community remains attentive to any new leaks or official announcements. The expectation is that, with the main casting set, production will pick up speed throughout 2026.
