“A God Greater Than Kratos”: Reacher Star Paulie Advocates for Amazon to Cast Him in Live-Action God of War Series

The God of War franchise remains one of the most significant intellectual properties for Sony and PlayStation. Originating from Santa Monica Studio’s efforts, the first game launched in 2005 and set off a series that endures to this day. Early titles delve into Greek mythology, portraying Kratos, a vengeful Spartan warrior, on a quest for revenge against Ares and the other gods of Olympus following the tragic loss of his family. The most recent entry, *God of War: Ragnarok*, shifts the narrative focus to Norse mythology, with Kratos navigating the challenges of Midgard.

In 2022, plans for a *God of War* television adaptation were announced, with Mark Fergus, Hawk Ostby, and Rafe Judkins at the helm for Prime Video. However, the project faced significant hurdles over the subsequent two years. Reports emerged last October indicating that the original creative team had exited, prompting Amazon to start afresh. Shortly thereafter, Ronald D. Moore was brought in as the new showrunner.

Olivier Richters Shares His Ambitions for a God of War Role

The Reacher Actor Expresses Interest in Other Iconic Roles

Olivier Richters, renowned for his portrayal of the formidable bodyguard Paulie in *Reacher*, has articulated his aspirations for future roles. Also known as the Dutch Giant, Richters made a striking impact as a key antagonist to Alan Ritchson’s Jack Reacher in Season 3 of the acclaimed Prime Video series.

In a conversation with ScreenRant, Richters expressed his enthusiasm for the *God of War* adaptation, revealing that after hearing about it, he urged his agent to explore this opportunity, leveraging his newfound relationship with Prime Video. Here’s what he stated:

Last week it was announced by Amazon that they’re going to make God of War. Of course I want to be Kratos, but I don’t believe they would ever pick me for Kratos. I’m just too darn big. But there is a God that’s bigger than Kratos, and that is Týr, or also Thor. I asked my agent, “You have to pursue this for me. Amazon now knows me. Can Paulie play in God of War?” That’s one of my dream roles.

Richters also mentioned his aspirations for roles in franchises like Harry Potter and Marvel, detailing specific characters he would like to portray:

My other dream role is in Harry Potter–they’re going to make Hagrid, that [would] be crazy. And I still have the dream to play Colossus in Marvel–the human version. Those three are my dream roles I want to pursue.

Implications of Olivier Richters’ Aspirations

Realistic Dreams in the Competitive Entertainment Industry

As an accomplished bodybuilder, fitness model, and actor, Richters has made his mark in various high-profile films such as Marvel’s *Black Widow*, *Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny*, *The King’s Man*, and *Borderlands*. His role in *Reacher* significantly highlights his potential and has placed him on a promising path within the industry. With the climactic showdown between Paulie and Ritchson’s character concluding Season 3, Richters is poised for further opportunities.

Although casting for HBO’s *Harry Potter* reboot is ongoing, there are reports of Nick Frost being close to finalizing a deal to portray Rubeus Hagrid, a role once held by the late Robbie Coltrane. While Richters’ chance of landing this iconic character may be slim, the possibility remains. With Marvel having previously cast him, the likelihood of Richters appearing in future MCU films is more promising. Currently, no casting announcements have been made regarding the *God of War* series.

Update on the God of War TV Show’s Progress

Potential Appearance of Týr

Despite earlier concerns regarding the lack of momentum for the *God of War* TV series following the departure of its original creative team, the addition of Ronald D. Moore instills hope. Moore’s extensive experience, notably as the writer and showrunner behind acclaimed series such as *For All Mankind*, *Outlander*, and the *Battlestar Galactica* reboot, coupled with his work in the *Star Trek* franchise, affirms his capabilities. Recently, he revealed on *The Sackhoff Show* podcast that Prime Video has commissioned two seasons of the *God of War* series, signaling a strong confidence in the venture.

Details regarding the narrative direction for the show under Moore’s leadership remain sparse. It is uncertain whether the series will explore the earlier Greek mythology era or transition into the Norse setting. Týr, a character introduced during the Norse saga beginning with the 2018 *God of War*, voiced in the sequel *Ragnarok*, may only become relevant in later seasons as Kratos ventures into Midgard.

Our Perspective on Olivier Richters’ Aspirations

Richters’ Potential in Future Fantasy Series

Olivier Richters is a fitting choice for a role in *God of War*, regardless of which character he embodies. Fans have vocalized their support for Richters to take on the role of Kratos, yet many also wish to see Christopher Judge reprise the character, given his previous performances in the game series. Richters’ imposing figure certainly fits the physicality required for Kratos, but he could also embody even more formidable gods within the narrative. His portrayal of Paulie in *Reacher* showcases his impressive range.

Richters would undoubtedly excel in a role akin to Hagrid, although he possesses a tougher demeanor. The reality is, myriad roles across fantasy series would align perfectly with Richters’ talents, prompting a sense of regret amongst fans that he missed out on *Game of Thrones*.

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