Matt Damon is bringing Greek mythology to life — and he’s doing it with a seriously shredded physique.
The 54-year-old actor was recently spotted shirtless on the rocky hillsides of Favignana, Italy, while filming Christopher Nolan’s upcoming epic “The Odyssey.” Photos from the set show Damon in rugged shape, flaunting defined abs, a scruffy grey beard, and tan wet trousers as he takes on the role of Odysseus.
Joining Damon on set was Zendaya, 28, who wore a flowing Grecian-style tan dress with her hair tucked back. The pair were seen shooting scenes for what’s being described as a mythic action film based on Homer’s ancient poem.
Universal Pictures officially confirmed Nolan’s project in late 2024, calling it a “mythic action epic” shot around the globe with brand-new IMAX film technology. The film is slated for release on July 17, 2026, and boasts a star-studded cast including Tom Holland (as Telemachus), Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, and Charlize Theron.
Damon’s Intense Prep: “Bourne Territory” Again
While Damon looks every bit the ancient hero, his transformation didn’t come easy. According to longtime friend Ben Affleck, the actor has been deep in stunt rehearsals for the physically demanding role.
“He’s going off to do this Chris Nolan movie and doing a lot of stunt rehearsal,” Affleck told GQ. “It’s kind of like, boy, it’s been a while, hasn’t it? Where you really have to go learn the fights — this is Bourne Identity kind of territory.”
Affleck joked that while he used to be all-in on doing his own stunts, things change after 50. “Now I’m very much, ‘At what point is the stunt performer going to come in?’” he added, noting he might even fly to Italy just to watch Nolan in action.
Fans Excited — and Some Critical
The first promo images of Damon in armor, a cape, and headpiece were released earlier this year, stirring massive buzz among fans. Many expressed excitement to see Damon in the lead role, but others criticized the lack of Greek actors and filming locations tied to Greece.
“No real Greeks cast in a movie about Ancient Greece… very disappointing,” one user commented. Another added, “Nolan is known for authenticity. This feels like a miss.”
Regardless of the debate, anticipation is building for Nolan’s first post-Oppenheimer project — and Damon’s physique has already set the tone for what could be a visually stunning, physically intense performance as Odysseus.
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