Amazon's 'God of War' series to recast Kratos following Ryan Hurst injury

Amazon's live-action God of War series has reportedly suffered a major setback after star Ryan Hurst sustained an on-set injury that will require the lead role of Kratos to be recast.

According to multiple reports, Hurst injured his bicep while performing a stunt during filming in Vancouver and later underwent surgery.

While the actor is recovering, the timeline for his return remains uncertain, prompting the production to move forward with a new lead.

Production on the Prime Video fantasy series has been paused following the incident.

Reports indicate that four episodes of the first season had already been completed, but they are now expected to be reshot once a replacement for Hurst is cast.

Based on Sony Santa Monica Studio's hit video game franchise, the series follows Kratos, the former Greek God of War, and his son Atreus as they journey across the Norse realms to fulfill the final wish of Kratos' late wife, Fay.

Their quest also brings them into conflict with the powerful gods of Asgard.

The cast includes Mandy Patinkin as Odin, Ed Skrein as Baldur, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson as Thor, Teresa Palmer as Sif, Max Parker as Heimdall, Alastair Duncan as Mimir, Jeff Gulka as Sindri and Danny Woodburn as Brok.

Hurst's casting had drawn particular attention because he had previously portrayed Thor in the God of War video games before physically transforming to take on the role of Kratos for the television adaptation.

The series is being led by showrunner Ronald D. Moore, with Frederick E.O. Toye directing the opening episodes.

Amazon had already renewed the show for a second season before the reported production delay, though those plans could now be affected by the unexpected recasting.

Hurst, known for Sons of Anarchy and The Walking Dead, can currently be seen in Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, where he portrays Mentor alongside Tom Holland.