Joshua Jackson Gained 20 Pounds Eating 4,000 Calories Daily

Joshua Jackson Gained 20 Pounds for Role in Karate Kid: Legends

Joshua Jackson revealed that he gained 20 pounds to portray former boxer Victor in the upcoming film Karate Kid: Legends. The 46-year-old actor shared on the Today show that he consumed 4,000 calories daily to bulk up for the role, admitting the process was more challenging than expected.

Preparing for a Physically Demanding Role

Jackson, who normally weighs around 175 pounds, increased his weight to nearly 195 pounds to authentically embody Victor, an ex-heavyweight boxer and pizzeria owner. “It was harder than I thought it was going to be,” Jackson said, highlighting the physical demands of the transformation. Despite the difficulty, he expressed enthusiasm about the training involved, calling it “the fun part” of his job.

Previous Weight Gain and Health Challenges

This is not the first time Jackson has undergone a significant physical transformation for a role. In 2023, he gained 30 pounds to play corrupt neurosurgeon Christopher Duntsch in the Peacock series Dr. Death. However, the intense role took a toll on his health, resulting in a severe back injury that left him unable to walk for six weeks. Jackson attributed the injury to the emotional and physical stress he endured while portraying the character.

Balancing Career and Parenthood

Jackson also reflected on how becoming a father to his 5-year-old daughter, Juno, has changed his approach to preparing for roles. He noted that parenthood has shifted his perspective, making it harder to isolate himself for intense character preparation as he once did earlier in his career.

Upcoming Premiere

Karate Kid: Legends is set to premiere in theaters on Friday, May 30, 2025. Fans can look forward to seeing Joshua Jackson’s impressive physical transformation and compelling performance as Victor.