Zac Efron Confesses Workout Obsession While Preparing for Pro-Wrestler Role in “Iron Claw”

The Iron Claw, set to hit theaters on December 22, is more than just a display of muscle and wrestling drama. This A24 film, directed by Sean Durkin and starring Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, and Harris Dickinson, tells the real-life story of the Von Erich wrestling family. The film follows their journey from the 1960s to today, focusing on the only surviving brother, Kevin Von Erich, portrayed by Efron.

Recently, Efron opened up about his intense preparation for the film, admitting he became ‘obsessed’ with the intense preparation for the film. He dedicated months to training, gaining 15 pounds of muscle through extensive workouts and even wrestling for real during shoots. His transformation was both physical and mental, as Efron shared how he found himself withdrawing, much like his character, due to the demanding regimen.

‘It was a singular focus for months,” he said about working on the movie. “And your life goes out the window during prep.”

The film required Efron to embrace old-school bodybuilding and Olympic lifting, achieving the authentic look of a pro wrestler. The actor mentioned how the added weight became an unexpected ally, making him feel different from his usual self. The physical toll was immense, with Efron experiencing severe muscle soreness and social withdrawal. He reflected on the pressures of perfectionism, reminding himself to enjoy the process despite the challenges.

On set, Zac was deeply committed to his role but remained a supportive presence for his co-stars. Jeremy Allen White, his co-star, praised Efron’s encouragement and lack of competitiveness, contrasting the onscreen brotherly relationships they portrayed.

Efron’s transformation from the beloved Troy Bolton of High School Musical to more complex roles illustrates his growth as an actor.  

Durkin likens Efron’s performance to Robert De Niro’s in The Deer Hunter, describing Efron as a “quiet leader.” He also humorously compares him to Burt Lancaster in The Swimmer, joking about Efron being in a Speedo throughout the film. This comparison is partly in jest, yet it highlights that Efron’s physicality is central to this work.

The Iron Claw is a testament to Efron’s evolution as an actor and his ability to bring depth and physicality to his roles. His portrayal of Kevin Von Erich in this gripping biopic definitely promises to reveal a new side of Zac Efron to audiences.