In the world of superhero cinema, where the stakes are as high as the muscles are big, dedication to a role is often taken to extraordinary lengths. Henry Cavill, known for his chiseled physique and impeccable performances, recently demonstrated this commitment in a way that left a lasting mark on both the screen and his health.

Cavill’s portrayal of Wolverine in the MCU’s Deadpool & Wolverine has quickly become one of the movie’s standout moments. This film, already a fan favorite for its plethora of cameos from actors reprising their roles from previous Marvel franchises, also introduced new faces to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Among these debut performances, Cavill’s brief yet impactful appearance as Wolverine stood out, cementing him as a potential successor to Hugh Jackman’s iconic portrayal.

However, this scene was not without its challenges. In an interview with The New York Times, the film’s director, Shawn Levy, shared a behind-the-scenes look at the lengths to which Cavill went to fully embody the cigar-chomping Wolverine. According to Levy, Cavill spent an entire shoot day with a cigar in his mouth, a prop that would help him fully capture the essence of the rugged, no-nonsense mutant.

“[Henry] not only had that pumped-up muscular body but kept that cigar lit and in his mouth for the entirety of the shoot day,” Levy recounted. The commitment to authenticity was unwavering, with Cavill ensuring that the cigar stayed lit and in place for the duration of the shoot. Yet, this dedication came at a price. The next day, Cavill was reportedly sick to his stomach after inhaling cigar smoke for eight hours straight.

Levy continued to praise Cavill’s professionalism, noting that despite the discomfort and eventual illness, Cavill never let it show during filming. “He never once did waver,” Levy emphasized, reflecting on the actor’s resilience and commitment to his craft.

Cavill’s performance, though only lasting mere seconds on screen, left a significant impact, with many fans and critics alike envisioning him as a fitting replacement for Jackman’s Wolverine. The dedication to the role, even at the cost of his health, is a testament to Cavill’s passion for his work and his desire to deliver an authentic and memorable performance, no matter the cost.

As the MCU continues to evolve and expand, fans can only hope that this brief yet powerful appearance by Cavill is a sign of more to come. If his portrayal of Wolverine is anything to go by, audiences can expect a performance that is as fierce and dedicated as the character himself. And while the cigar may have caused some discomfort, the moment it helped create will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the MCU’s most iconic.