When you hear the name George Foreman, two things likely come to mind: the legendary boxer or the iconic George Foreman Grill. Now, audiences will get an even closer look at the man behind the name in the new biopic, Big George Foreman.
The film traces Foreman’s journey from a troubled youth to a heavyweight champion, a businessman, and a minister. Hollywood Unlocked was on the red carpet for the film’s premiere, where we caught up with the cast and directors to talk about bringing Foreman’s incredible story to life.
Stepping into Foreman’s shoes is actor Khris Davis, who has been open about the physical transformation he underwent for the role. Speaking with Davis, he shared how he prepared for the intense demands of the character:
” I wanted to commit so I had a mix and master program brought myself to 7000 calories a day and I went from 225 to 275 in five weeks, so 50 pounds in five weeks and the heaviest I got was a 282 but that’s because I didn’t want to keep going up I got to stop somewhere so yeah so it was up there was intense but after about the first two weeks, it was just a part of what needed to happen”.
Director George Tillman Jr. also praised Davis’s dedication, sharing that when it came time to cast Foreman, he needed someone who was all-in,
In Big George Foreman, fans will follow Foreman’s departure from boxing after a near-death experience, his transformation into an ordained Christian minister, and his historic return to the ring — ultimately becoming the oldest world heavyweight champion, a record he still holds today.
The film also highlights Foreman’s successful pivot into business, showing how he leveraged his charisma and name recognition to build a legacy far beyond boxing — most famously with the George Foreman Grill.
Though Foreman was only present on set once during filming, Tillman shared that he was fully supportive of the project and offered firsthand insight. Tillman recounted a particularly surprising story Foreman shared about Muhammad Ali, portrayed in the film by Sullivan Jones:
“The most interesting story he told me was that he only saw Ali one time the year before the fight. I was like in documentaries they say you guys are always running, nah, they say in the press junket, you guys had a press junket, nah, only saw him one time so those are the things we get to tell his story from his view”.
As for Jones, he shared that despite previously portraying Ali in other projects, speaking directly with Ali’s family helped him further capture the spirit of the legendary fighter.
Overall, Big George Foreman is a story of triumph, perseverance, and faith — reminding audiences that even when hope seems lost, greatness is still within reach. The film is now playing in theaters!
George turned his life around after thrilla in Manila, kudos.
George turned his life around after thrilla in Manila, kudos.
George turned to god, and turned his life into good things