Prime Video's 'God of War' locks in 'The Walking Dead' and 'Ragnarök' star as Kratos and we are thrilled
Prime Video’s ‘God of War’ adaptation has found its leading warrior. Inspired by PlayStation’s legendary video game franchise rooted in ancient mythology, the show has already secured a two-season commitment. Furthermore, pre-production is currently underway in Vancouver, with casting now moving forward as the project begins to take shape. The series is being shepherded by writer, showrunner, and executive producer Ronald D. Moore, according to Horror Geek Life.
Ryan Hurst has officially been cast as Kratos in the live-action series, as per Deadline. He is known for his standout roles in ‘Sons of Anarchy’ and Netflix’s ‘The Abandons.’ ‘God of War’ tells an emotionally driven story centered on Kratos and his young son, Atreus. Following the death of Kratos’s wife, Faye, the father-son duo set out on a journey to fulfill her final wish: scattering her ashes from the highest peak. Along the way, father and son are forced to confront monsters, gods, and their own unresolved wounds. Kratos, the central figure of the franchise, is a Spartan warrior shaped by violence and loss. Born into a brutal military culture, he once pledged himself to Ares, the Greek God of War, in exchange for victory on the battlefield.
The decision cost him everything. Throughout the video game series, Kratos has become infamous for his immense strength, icy resolve, and tragic history. The live-action series will closely mirror the story arc of the franchise’s last two games, which shifted focus from vengeance to fatherhood and redemption. Kratos’ relationship with Atreus represents a turning point in his story, forcing him to confront emotions he has long buried. Hurst’s casting also marks a notable return to the ‘God of War’ universe. He previously voiced the thunder god Thor in ‘God of War Ragnarök,’ a performance that earned him a BAFTA nomination.
The series is a collaborative effort between Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM Studios, working alongside PlayStation Productions and Tall Ship Productions. The executive producing team is extensive, with Moore joined by Maril Davis, Cory Barlog, Naren Shankar, Matthew Graham, Asad Qizilbash, Jeff Ketcham, Hermen Hulst, Roy Lee, and Brad Van Arragon. Co-executive producers include Joe Menosky, Marc Bernardin, Tania Lotia, and Ben McGinnis. Direction duties for the first two episodes will be handled by Frederick E.O. Toye, whose recent work includes ‘Shōgun’ and ‘The Boys.’
Moreover, Hurst is widely recognized for his portrayal of Opie Winston on FX’s ‘Sons of Anarchy.’ He recently reunited with series creator Kurt Sutter for Netflix’s ‘The Abandons,’ where he starred as Miles Alderton. His résumé also includes appearances in ‘The Walking Dead,’ ‘SWAT,’ ‘Bosch,’ ‘Bates Motel,’ and Disney+’s ‘The Mysterious Benedict Society.’ Looking ahead, Hurst will next appear in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming epic ‘The Odyssey,’ slated for release on July 17.
