Ryan Bader Reflects on Acting Debut and Unique Experiences with Emily Blunt
MMA champion Ryan Bader steps into the acting world with his role in The Smashing Machine, a transition that quickly revealed the challenges of performing alongside seasoned actors like Emily Blunt.
“In one scene, she runs up to me, crying,” Bader recounted. “After the director called cut, she stopped, we chatted, and then she was crying again. I was baffled—how does that happen?”
With humor, he added, “They considered having me cry too. I joked, ‘Do you have any bear spray? Maybe that’ll help get some tears out!’”
In this film, Bader portrays Mark Coleman, a pivotal figure in MMA history, while Dwayne Johnson takes on the role of Mark Kerr. Their characters were instrumental in elevating the UFC's profile during its formative years.
Blunt plays Kerr’s girlfriend, Dawn Staples. Bader noted her dedication to the role: “On set, she would ask questions for hours. When we first met during a camera test, she approached me, hugged me, and expressed gratitude for my MMA expertise.”
He praised Blunt’s commitment to understanding the MMA culture of 1999, stating, “She immersed herself in the character and truly captured the essence of that time.”
Bader also commended Johnson for his thorough preparation. “He embodied Mark Kerr perfectly—his walk, his speech, even his mannerisms were spot on,” he said. “Before one scene, I walked into the locker room to find him gloved up and completely focused. He had this intense look in his eyes that reminded me of what it feels like before a fight.”
“It’s a lonely place,” Bader continued, reflecting on the pre-fight atmosphere. “You’re about to step out in front of fans and face another trained fighter. It gave me chills.”
Bader acknowledged director Benny Safdie’s commitment to authenticity. “Ben is all about realism,” he explained. “This film captures that feeling. True MMA fighters will appreciate all the little details we included.”
The Smashing Machine is currently showing in theaters, offering audiences a glimpse into the gritty world of mixed martial arts.
