John Leguizamo opens up about brutal filming challenge for Christopher Nolan’s 'The Odyssey'

John Leguizamo has opened up about the intense physical challenges he faced while filming Christopher Nolan’s epic adaptation of The Odyssey.

The actor revealed that he was unable to see clearly for up to 14 hours a day while portraying Eumaeus, the blind servant of Odysseus, played by Matt Damon.

Speaking about his experience on the set of the blockbuster film, Leguizamo explained that the special contact lenses required for his character significantly affected his daily routine. The actor said he could not use his phone, read scripts or move around independently during long filming sessions because of his limited vision.

“Not being able to see for 12 to 14 hours a day” became one of the most difficult parts of the role, Leguizamo shared. He added that he often needed assistance getting to the bathroom, returning to set and even during meals.

The Golden Globe nominee said the experience forced him to spend long periods alone with his thoughts while filming. Despite the difficulties, Leguizamo embraced the challenge as part of bringing the character of Eumaeus to life.

Directed by Christopher Nolan, The Odyssey adapts Homer’s ancient Greek epic and follows Odysseus’ dangerous journey home after the Trojan War. The film stars Matt Damon as Odysseus, with Anne Hathaway as Penelope and Tom Holland as Telemachus.

The star-studded cast also includes Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong’o, Jon Bernthal, Elliot Page, Mia Goth, Travis Scott and several other notable actors.

Released by Universal Pictures, The Odyssey has become one of the most talked-about films of 2026, combining Nolan’s signature filmmaking style with one of history’s most influential literary works.