10 Times Actresses Went Through Extreme Body Transformations for a Role

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - July 28th 2025, 17:00 GMT+2

Cropped Charlize Theron Tully 2018 — Charlize Theron – Tully (2018)

Transforming into the worn-out, overwhelmed mother of three in *Tully*, Charlize Theron didn’t just change her appearance – she embodied the physical and emotional burden of motherhood. The 50 pounds she gained weren’t just numbers on a scale; they reflected the exhaustion, frustration, and self-sacrifice of a woman struggling to juggle it all. Theron’s raw performance was a sharp departure from her usual glamorous roles, and yet she nailed every moment, capturing the essence of Marlo's life with humor and heart. She took us on a journey of self-discovery, reminding us that motherhood often comes with an unexpected price. | © Focus Features

Cropped Jennifer Lawrence Red Sparrow 2018 — Jennifer Lawrence – Red Sparrow (2018)

In *Red Sparrow*, Jennifer Lawrence didn’t just step into the role of a Russian spy – she became one. The physical transformation wasn’t as dramatic as in some other roles, but the mental and emotional shift was vast. Lawrence’s Dominika Egorova is sharp, calculating, and deadly, and she put in serious work, not only mastering combat skills but also learning the art of seduction with the intensity of a true professional. The change was in her attitude – Lawrence’s portrayal of this complex, fierce character made us believe in every move she made, both on and off the screen. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Emma Stone Battle of the Sexes 2017 — Emma Stone – Battle of the Sexes (2017)

Playing Billie Jean King in *Battle of the Sexes* wasn’t just about hitting tennis balls – Emma Stone had to capture the relentless drive and tenacity that defined one of history’s most influential athletes. She didn’t drastically change her body, but she did immerse herself in King’s world, learning to serve like a champion while bringing the emotional depth of King’s fight for gender equality to life. Stone’s portrayal was a perfect mix of strength and sensitivity, giving us a deeper understanding of the personal and public struggles Billie Jean faced. | © Fox Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Anne Hathaway Les Miserables 2012 — Anne Hathaway – Les Misérables (2012)

When Anne Hathaway took on the role of Fantine in *Les Misérables*, she didn’t just lose weight – she stripped herself of any comfort, both physically and emotionally. Her commitment to the role was evident as she shed her hair and put herself through an intense weight loss regimen, embodying the desperation and heartbreak of a woman trying to survive in a brutal world. It wasn’t just the drastic transformation that made Hathaway’s performance unforgettable; it was the soul-crushing emotion she poured into Fantine’s tragic journey, making every moment on screen feel like a gut punch. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Natalie Portman Black Swan 2010 — Natalie Portman – Black Swan (2010)

Natalie Portman didn’t just take on the role of Nina Sayers in *Black Swan –* she transformed into the very essence of a tortured artist. Ballet training pushed her body to its limits, but it was her mental and emotional journey into Nina’s obsessive quest for perfection that truly made her performance stand out. Portman’s physical transformation was undeniable, but it was the psychological unraveling of her character that left us mesmerized. From the first graceful pirouette to her final, haunting moments, Portman’s performance made Nina’s descent into madness impossible to look away from. | © Fox Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Mila Kunis Black Swan 2010 — Mila Kunis – Black Swan (2010)

In *Black Swan*, Mila Kunis didn’t need to change her body drastically – she transformed through attitude and presence. Playing Lily, the seductive and carefree dancer, Kunis exuded a freedom that contrasted sharply with Natalie Portman’s tightly wound Nina. Her role was pivotal, acting as both a tempting force and an unsettling influence, pushing Nina to her breaking point. Kunis brought an effortlessly sensual energy to Lily, making her the perfect foil to Portman’s intense and obsessive character, all without the need for extreme physical changes. | © Fox Searchlight Pictures

Cropped Hilary Swank Million Dollar Baby 2004 — Hilary Swank – Million Dollar Baby (2004)

Stepping into the role of a boxer wasn’t just a physical challenge for Hilary Swank – it was a journey of total transformation. To play Maggie Fitzgerald, Swank embraced a grueling fitness regime that saw her gaining muscle and learning the craft of boxing. But the real magic came from her ability to convey Maggie’s inner strength and emotional vulnerability, a balance that earned her an Academy Award. Swank made us believe in the fight, both in and out of the ring, and it was that depth that made her portrayal unforgettable. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped Charlize Theron Monster 2003 — Charlize Theron – Monster (2003)

Charlize Theron took on Aileen Wuornos in *Monster* and completely disappeared into the role. The physical changes – gaining weight, prosthetic teeth, and makeup – were the most visible, but what was truly remarkable was how Theron captured Wuornos’ inner turmoil. The chilling and heartbreaking transformation wasn’t just about appearance; it was about becoming someone entirely different, both physically and emotionally. Her portrayal of the notorious serial killer earned her an Oscar, solidifying her as one of the most committed actors in Hollywood. | © Newmarket Films

Cropped Renée Zellweger Bridget Jones 2001 — Renée Zellweger – Bridget Jones (2001)

When Renée Zellweger took on *Bridget Jones's Diary*, she didn’t just gain weight – she transformed into a character who felt as real as your best friend. Zellweger’s portrayal of the lovable, flawed, and utterly relatable Bridget captured the essence of every woman trying to navigate her love life and self-image. Her weight gain for the role wasn’t just a gimmick; it was part of her authentic embrace of the character’s imperfections. The way Zellweger delivered humor and heart with perfect timing made Bridget unforgettable. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Demi Moore G I Jane 1997 — Demi Moore – G.I. Jane (1997)

Demi Moore’s performance in *G.I. Jane* is the definition of physical and emotional transformation. When she shaved her head and took on the role of Lieutenant Jordan O'Neil, she wasn’t just playing a soldier – she was embodying the fierce drive and determination of a woman breaking barriers in a male-dominated world. Moore underwent extensive physical training, gaining strength and endurance to make her character’s grueling journey believable. The transformation wasn’t just about her appearance; it was about her resolve and power, making her portrayal one for the ages. | © Hollywood Pictures

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In Hollywood, female actors often take on roles that require not only emotional depth but also physical transformations. Whether it’s gaining or losing significant weight, sculpting muscles, or undergoing drastic changes for authenticity, these actresses demonstrate just how far they are willing to go for their craft. Some of these body transformations have become iconic, showing the lengths these women will endure to truly embody their characters. In this article, we highlight 10 times female actors underwent extreme body changes for a role, showcasing their dedication, determination, and the incredible commitment it takes to bring a character to life on the big screen.