Move over, Kim Kardashian. We’ve got a far more compelling weight loss story than yours.
Hunger Games star Sam Claflin revealed he shed 40 pounds for his role as Will Traynor in the new movie Me Before You.
In the film, Claflin plays a wealthy young banker who becomes paralyzed in a tragic accident.
The actor has been pumping up the movie through his Instagram account by sharing stories and behind-the-scenes shots for the past several weeks.
In yesterday’s post, prefaced with “49/50 final thought,” he shared the shirtless pic above and talked about getting into the physicality of his character and how everyday people deal with tragedy:
“I had to get myself in peak physical condition to play Will before the accident, and that came along with at least one long and hard daily session in the gym and a very strict diet, with little sleep.
“It was important for me to show the distinct differences between him before and after the accident, not only emotionally and mentally, but physically too.
“I shed over 3 stone in the three months I was training, and honestly pushed my personal limits.
“A lot of people struggle with every day life, and do it alone, I was fortunate to have a wonderful support network around me, guiding me through the process step by step.
“I’m not saying I’m a hero. I’m merely saying I found it tough and therefore appreciate what other people go through.
“I’m an actor. I do what I can to make each part I play as believable as I can. To play it honestly. And truthfully. And hope people invest within that character.
“The two sides of Will, are of course just one person, but I believe we are all made up of many different versions of ourselves.
“A lot of us haven’t been tested the way Will has, but something as life-changing as that, will affect people differently.
“Every person is different. Everyone deals with circumstance and situation differently. And everyone should be able to make choices in life without judgement or comment.
“This film is Wills journey. Enjoy your journey. #liveboldly”
Me Before You also stars Emilia Clarke and is in theaters now.
