Since his breakthrough role in 1997’s “Good Will Hunting,” Matt Damon has carved a niche for himself as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. The journey has been particularly iconic with the Bourne series, where Damon’s portrayal of the amnesiac spy Jason Bourne has thrilled audiences worldwide. With five installments under his belt, and a brief hiatus from one, Damon’s association with the franchise has been a significant part of his acting career.
The Toll of Going Shirtless: Damon’s Regrets from “Jason Bourne”
In a candid revelation to GQ, Matt Damon discussed his experiences filming the Bourne series, particularly the strenuous physical demands it placed on him, especially as he aged.
“I turned 45 on the day I shot a scene where we’re two bare-chested guys fighting in a warehouse,” Damon shared. The actor admitted that maintaining such a high level of physical fitness was exhausting, leading him to advise others, “Don’t do it. It’s not worth it at all.” His training regime, filled with “hours and hours a day” of work, resulted in constant fatigue and muscle tears—a stark contrast to his earlier days in the franchise.
Buzz Around a New Bourne Movie
Despite the physical challenges, the buzz around a new Bourne movie has not waned. On “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” Damon teased the possibility of a new installment, hinting at discussions with Edward Berger, the acclaimed director of “All Quiet on the Western Front.”
“There is a great director named Edward Berger… he said he had an idea. I would love to work with him, so he’s working on it,” Damon revealed.
This news has rekindled excitement among fans, eager to see if the aging actor will once again step into the role of the skilled spy.
However, Damon is pragmatic about the future, acknowledging the need for a fresh face to take over the role eventually.
“Look, I’m as anxious as you are to see if this thing [happens] — I hope it’s great and that we can do it. At a certain point, somebody is going to need to take it over. I’m not getting any younger,” he commented during the show.
As rumors of a new Bourne movie continue to swirl, fans of the franchise remain on the edge, waiting for official confirmation. Meanwhile, all previous movies in the Bourne saga are available for viewing on Apple TV+, allowing new and old fans alike to revisit the thrilling journey of Jason Bourne as they anticipate what might come next. Whether or not Damon returns to the franchise, his impact on the Bourne legacy is undeniable, marked by a blend of grit, intensity, and a touch of vulnerability.