Sacha Baron Cohen, best known for outrageous comic roles like Borat and Ali G, has stunned fans with a dramatic physical transformation ahead of his debut as Marvel’s demonic villain Mephisto. At 53, the actor unveiled a chiselled physique in Men’s Fitness UK, confessing that his so-called revenge body was built with the help of Ozempic, disciplined training and a crash course in consistency.
“Some celebs use Ozempic, some use private chefs, some use personal trainers. I did all three,” he wrote on Instagram, sharing images from the shoot. Mocking himself in classic style, he added, “Debuting my new character. Middle aged man who replaced beer with protein shakes.”
Baron Cohen had just three weeks to prepare before filming. He turned to Alfonso Moretti, a celebrity trainer known for reshaping bodies under pressure. The plan was straightforward but demanding. Cohen was required to do 100 push-ups every day, stick to 25-minute workout sessions and maintain a high-protein low-sugar diet. He admitted he started with “the core strength of an arthritic jellyfish” but found the brief workouts surprisingly sustainable, even during filming.
By the second week, his wardrobe team had to spend over five thousand dollars adjusting costumes as his body continued to change. Marvel confirmed his role as Mephisto following the villain’s surprise debut in the finale of Ironheart, finally putting fan speculation to rest.
Reaction to his Ozempic use has ranged from admiration to concern, with some fans questioning Hollywood’s growing reliance on weight-loss drugs. Still, Cohen’s transparency and commitment have drawn praise and curiosity about where he takes the character next.
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