Benedict Cumberbatch has criticised Hollywood as a “grossly wasteful industry” while discussing the extreme diet he followed to prepare for his role as Doctor Strange in the Marvel films.
The Oscar-nominated actor revealed he ate five meals a day plus snacks including boiled eggs, almonds and cheese to achieve the physical transformation required for the superhero role. Speaking on the “Ruthie’s Table 4” podcast, Cumberbatch described the experience as uncomfortable despite enjoying body transformations for his work.
“It’s horrific eating beyond your appetite,” he said. “Going back to responsibility and resourcefulness and sustainability, it’s just like, ‘What am I doing? I could feed a family with the amount I’m eating.'”
Cumberbatch extended his criticism beyond catering to the broader environmental impact of film production. He highlighted various wasteful practices including non-recycled set builds, transportation, housing, and the massive energy consumption required for studio lighting.
“The amount of wattage you need to create daylight and consistent light in a studio environment. It’s a lot of energy,” he explained.
The actor acknowledged that celebrities often face accusations of hypocrisy when advocating for sustainability given the industry’s environmental footprint. However, he said he tries to “push the green initiative” on film sets both as an actor and producer, citing simple changes like avoiding plastic water bottles for crew members.
“We’re in the 21st Century,” he said, suggesting the industry should adopt more environmentally conscious practices where possible.
Cumberbatch is currently promoting his upcoming film “The Roses,” a reimagining of Warren Adler’s 1981 novel “The War of the Roses.” The movie, co-starring Olivia Colman, follows a married couple’s bitter divorce and opens August 29 from Searchlight Pictures.
