Jacob Elordi is no stranger to the limelight, with his breakout role in Euphoria and starring in the beloved The Kissing Booth trilogy. However, it’s his recent dramatic physical transformation for a new role in the series The Narrow Road to the Deep North that has been garnering significant attention. The 6-foot-5 Australian actor, known for his chiseled physique, made a bold decision to drastically lose weight for his portrayal of a prisoner of war in the World War II drama. This journey not only changed his physical appearance but also had a profound impact on his mental and emotional health.
The Catalyst for Change: A Role That Demanded Transformation
For Elordi, the transformation wasn’t about vanity or personal goals but about stepping into the shoes of a character who had experienced unimaginable suffering. To accurately portray a prisoner of war in The Narrow Road to the Deep North, Elordi had to lose a significant amount of weight, shedding approximately 20 pounds (9 kg) over the course of six weeks. This was no easy feat, but for Elordi, it was a necessary part of immersing himself into the story. He didn’t just have to look the part; he had to feel it deeply, understanding the physical and psychological toll that his character would have experienced.
“I knew that I had to make this look real. It wasn’t just about losing weight for aesthetic reasons—it was about becoming this character,” Elordi said in a recent interview. “The process was hard, but I knew that it would be worth it once I saw the end result.”
A Regimen of Diet, Exercise, and Discipline
The weight loss process was intense and disciplined. Elordi committed to a strict diet plan, focusing on cutting calories and limiting his food intake while still ensuring that his body received the necessary nutrients to maintain his energy levels for filming. His diet was primarily plant-based, rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, with a focus on whole, unprocessed foods. He also worked with nutritionists to create a plan that would help him achieve his weight loss goals while keeping his energy up for the physically demanding role.
Alongside the dietary adjustments, Elordi incorporated a rigorous exercise routine that included cardio and strength training. However, the real challenge for him was not just about working out harder—it was about controlling his eating habits and staying consistent. “It’s easy to go hard in the gym, but controlling your diet and avoiding temptation is what really makes a difference,” Elordi shared. The actor learned to balance his desire to maintain his strength for the role with the need to shed pounds in a safe and sustainable way.
Emotional and Mental Struggles: The Hidden Toll
While the physical transformation was noticeable, it was the emotional and mental toll of the journey that Elordi found most challenging. Weight loss, especially when it’s so drastic, can have a profound impact on one’s mental state, and Elordi was no exception. He found himself battling feelings of isolation and anxiety as he watched his body change. “At times, I felt like I was losing control, especially with all the scrutiny that comes with being in the public eye,” Elordi admitted. “It’s hard to escape the pressure to look a certain way, but for me, it was about being true to the role.”
Elordi spoke openly about his internal struggle with body image. As a young actor, he had already faced intense scrutiny about his appearance, with people constantly commenting on his height and physique. Losing weight for a role added to this pressure, and the journey pushed him to confront his body image insecurities head-on.
Through this process, Elordi found solace in meditation and mindfulness. These practices helped him stay grounded and focused on his goals without being overwhelmed by the external noise. “It’s been a journey of self-reflection,” Elordi shared. “I’ve learned to listen to my body and be more compassionate toward myself.”
The Impact on His Career and Personal Life
The weight loss not only affected Elordi physically but also had an influence on his career. In The Narrow Road to the Deep North, he was able to bring a level of authenticity to his role that might not have been possible if he hadn’t undergone such a physical transformation. His dedication to the role was evident, and the feedback from both critics and fans was overwhelmingly positive.
But the impact wasn’t just professional. Elordi’s transformation gave him a renewed sense of confidence and self-worth. Losing the weight and embracing a healthier lifestyle helped him reconnect with his body in a positive way, and he began to feel more empowered both on and off the screen.
“Looking at myself now, I feel proud of the work I’ve done, not just physically, but mentally as well,” Elordi reflected. “It’s about more than just weight loss—it’s about building a relationship with my body that’s based on respect, not judgment.”
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: What’s Next for Elordi?
Now that the project has wrapped, Elordi is focused on maintaining a healthy lifestyle rather than continuing with such extreme weight fluctuations. The actor has shifted his focus to sustainable fitness routines that prioritize longevity over short-term goals. He remains committed to his exercise regimen, which includes a mix of strength training, yoga, and cardio, to keep his body in shape without the need for drastic weight loss.
However, Elordi is quick to point out that his weight loss journey was unique to his role and should not be taken as a standard for others to follow. “What worked for me might not work for everyone, and that’s okay,” he said. “The most important thing is finding a balance that works for you, both mentally and physically.”
In terms of his diet, Elordi has continued to favor plant-based foods but is not rigid about following any specific diet. “I’m all about balance,” he explained. “I eat what makes me feel good, and I don’t put too much pressure on myself to follow any one specific regimen.”
A Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth
Jacob Elordi’s weight loss journey was more than just a physical transformation—it was a process of self-discovery, emotional growth, and a redefined sense of self-worth. While the physical changes were evident, the true transformation occurred within, as Elordi learned to navigate the pressures of fame, body image, and the demands of his craft.
For fans, Elordi’s openness about his struggles and his commitment to health and well-being is an inspiring reminder that true strength comes not just from how we look, but from how we take care of ourselves, inside and out. As he continues to grow both as an actor and as an individual, Elordi’s journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience, mindfulness, and the importance of self-compassion.
