Sydney Sweeney has undergone a dramatic transformation for her latest role. The 27-year-old actress shared behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram from the set of an upcoming biopic, where she portrays former professional boxer Christy Martin. In her post, Sweeney addressed the recent paparazzi photos that leaked her new look, writing, “Well, the cat’s out of the bag thanks to some paps in the bushes, so here’s a little BTS from my film I’m working on right now.”
The photos reveal Sweeney sporting dark brown hair with bangs and flexing her toned arm muscles, a departure from her usual blonde look, to embody Martin, who was a boxing star in the ’90s and early 2000s. Sweeney shared that she has spent months training to prepare for the physically demanding role, saying, “I’ve been immersed in training to bring to life the story of an incredible woman—a true champion who fought battles both inside and outside the ring.”
Image Courtesy: People
In a previous Instagram post from May, Sweeney confirmed she would be starring in the biopic, directed by David Michôd. She told Deadline that the role was particularly meaningful as she had practised kickboxing between the ages of 12 and 19 and was excited to get back in the ring. Sweeney described Martin’s story as both physically and emotionally challenging, adding that Martin “legitimized female boxing” and fought against abuse and gender stereotypes.
Known as ‘The Coal Miner’s Daughter’ during her boxing career, Martin was the first woman boxer to sign with famous promoter Don King. She achieved a 49-10-3 record and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020.
Image Courtesy: People
Sweeney said she felt a strong connection to the role, telling Deadline that Martin’s story “shines a light on her incredible rise to the top while showing the struggles of fame behind the curtains.” The biopic does not yet have a title or release date, but Sweeney has had a busy year, starring in several films including ‘Madame Web’, ‘Immaculate’, and Ron Howard’s ‘Eden’.
–Farheen Ali