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| Mark Ruffalo to star in HBO show ‘Task’ |
Mark Ruffalo Gained Weight
with Philly Cheesesteaks for Authentic FBI Role in HBO’s Task*
Mark Ruffalo packed on pounds via Philly cheesesteaks while preparing to play an FBI agent in HBO’s upcoming crime drama Task. His immersive approach included guidance from a real FBI agent.
Mark Ruffalo to star in HBO show ‘Task’Mark Ruffalo found a
delicious way to prepare for his latest role, and it involved plenty of Philly
cheesesteaks. The 57-year-old actor is stepping into the shoes of an FBI agent
in HBO’s upcoming crime drama Task, which follows a...
When
Mark Ruffalo signed on for the upcoming HBO crime drama Task, he did
more than learn FBI jargon—he embraced the local Philadelphia culture, complete
with cheesesteaks. The Oscar-nominated actor revealed that he purposely gained
weight by indulging in Philly cheesesteak sandwiches to better embody his
character, FBI agent Tom, highlighting his commitment to authentic storytelling
through physical transformation. People.com
In
a candid conversation at a benefit reading for All the President's Men
in New York, Ruffalo laughed, “I just put a bunch of weight on,” while sharing
his food-fueled preparation. The actor didn’t stop there; he also immersed
himself in real FBI procedures, spending time with agent Scott Duffey to
understand how real agents think and move. People.com
Creating an Authentic FBI Agent
Task, premiering September 7, sets its
drama in the working-class suburbs of Philadelphia, where Ruffalo’s
character leads a task force investigating violent home invasions. Set against
an emotionally charged backdrop, Tom—the former priest turned agent—must
wrestle with grief, shattered faith, and moral complexity as he navigates his
investigation. EW.comPeople.com
Ruffalo’s
cheesesteak diet wasn’t just for added pounds—it was symbolic, a nod to
regional flavor and tradition. By eating what locals do, he added texture to
the role, mirroring his character’s connection to the city and its tension.
A Taste of Philadelphia—and Commitment to Craft
Beyond
the cheesesteaks, Ruffalo emphasized his desire for genuine portrayals. By
working with an actual FBI agent and leaning into local customs, he avoided clichés.
“That’s about the most I did,” he admitted when discussing his method. People.com
This
attention to detail steers Task beyond routine crime drama. From gritty
visuals to emotionally resonant characters, the show promises empathy,
redemption, and suspense, as Tom confronts a dangerous family man bit by
bit. EW.comPeople.com