Benedict Cumberbatch spoke out against what he describes as the excessive wastefulness in Hollywood while discussing his role preparation on the Ruthie’s Table podcast on July 22. The 49-year-old actor criticized the massive consumption of food and energy involved in getting ready for major film roles, highlighting concerns over sustainability within the industry.
Strict Diet and Physical Transformation for “Doctor Strange”
Cumberbatch shared details about the strict diet he followed to prepare for his character in the Marvel movie Doctor Strange. He explained that he had to eat five meals a day, including boiled eggs, almonds, and cheese, to meet his calorie requirements for maintaining strength and stamina on set. Despite the physical benefits, he described the experience as unpleasant and excessive.
The exercise is great, and the end result is that you feel strong and you feel confident. You hold yourself better. You have a stamina through the exercise and the food that makes you last through the gig. But it is horrific,
he said.
I don’t like it personally. I think it’s horrific, eating beyond your appetite.
—Benedict Cumberbatch, actor
Concerns Over Environmental Impact of Hollywood Productions
Beyond his dietary challenges, Cumberbatch raised broader environmental concerns about film production practices. He pointed to waste generated from unrecycled set materials, energy consumption needed for lighting studios, and the impact of transport and housing related to filming.
Think about set builds that aren’t recycled, think about transport, think about food, think about housing, but also light and energy. The amount of wattage you need to create daylight and consistent light in a studio environment. It’s a lot of energy,
he emphasized.
Calls for Sustainable Changes on Film Sets
While acknowledging resistance to change within the industry, Cumberbatch suggested practical steps to reduce waste, such as adopting reusable water bottles on film sets. His remarks contribute to an ongoing conversation about sustainability in Hollywood and the need for greener production methods.
With rising attention to environmental issues in entertainment, Cumberbatch’s statements underline the importance of reassessing how films are made and encouraging more responsible approaches to resources. This could influence future industry standards and prompt other actors and crews to advocate for sustainability.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Benedict Cumberbatch support LGBTQ?
A. Benedict Cumberbatch backs LGBT+ rights and helped with a same-sex wedding in July 2013. He officiated the marriage of Judge Rinder, Robert Rinder, and Seth Cummings.
Q. Is Benedict Cumberbatch heterochromia?
A. Benedict Cumberbatch has a condition called partial heterochromia, making it tricky to see. Some days, his eyes look green, and on others, they seem blue.
Q. Does Benedict Cumberbatch have heterochromia?
A. Benedict Cumberbatch has a condition called partial heterochromia, which makes it hard to notice that his eyes change color. One day, they might look green, and the next day, they might seem blue.
