Lou Ferrigno, the iconic bodybuilder and actor best known for his role as the “Incredible Hulk,” has taken on a chilling new role in the horror film “The Hermit.” In this gripping movie, Ferrigno plays a gigantic, murderous pig farmer with a dark secret: he was taught by his mother how to cook and eat humans, turning them into jerky. This marks Ferrigno’s first creature role since his time as the green-skinned, rage-filled monster in the classic CBS TV series. The film, directed by Salvatore Sclafani and produced by Gerry Pass, follows two self-absorbed teenagers, Lisa and Eric, played by Malina Weissman and Anthony Turpel, who stumble upon the eerie farm while on a fishing trip. The duo soon finds themselves in a terrifying cat-and-mouse game with the cannibalistic farmer, leading to a shocking twist that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Ferrigno recently sat down with Variety to discuss his experience working on “The Hermit.” He admitted that this was his first foray into the horror genre, which made the project both exciting and challenging. “This guy, he’s kind of possessed,” Ferrigno said of his character. “You see the pain. You see the demons in him.” He emphasized that the character is deeply complex, drawing inspiration from a real-life story of a cannibalistic pig farm in Canada. Ferrigno praised the film’s suspenseful storytelling and the standout performance of his co-star Malina Weissman, calling the final twist “amazing.” Despite the film’s graphic and explicit scenes, Ferrigno believes the horror lies more in the psychological depth of the character than in gore.
When asked how it felt to return to a creature role after so many years, Ferrigno reflected on the opportunity to play a character far removed from his iconic “Hulk” persona. He explained that he was drawn to the role because it allowed him to explore a darker, more sinister side of human nature. “This guy, when you see the film, he’s kind of possessed,” Ferrigno said. “You see the pain, you see the demons in him—everything. And it’s kind of like an adventure, where the hideous is staring at you.” He admitted that getting into character required less physical transformation than his “Hulk” role but demanded deep emotional immersion to portray the character’s inner turmoil and evil tendencies.
Ferrigno also opened up about the physical and mental preparation required for the role. While he didn’t need the extensive prosthetics and green paint of his “Hulk” days, he still underwent a significant transformation. The actor grew a full beard, wore hair extensions, and carried a pig stick to embody the farmer’s wild and sinister presence. Ferrigno said he took his time to connect with the character’s inner darkness, describing him as “like a wild animal.” This dedication shines through in his performance, bringing depth and nuance to the terrifying figure.
The actor also shared his thoughts on the film’s intensity, comparing it to iconic horror characters like Hannibal Lecter. While he acknowledged that the film isn’t overly gory, he noted that certain scenes are graphic and explicit, necessary to convey the farmer’s disturbing habits. “He’s inside, he cuts up body parts,” Ferrigno explained. “He preserves them and everything. He loves to eat people who cuss. And that’s part of the movie.” These unsettling details make the film a standout in the horror genre, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
In addition to discussing “The Hermit,” Ferrigno reflected on his long-standing friendship with Arnold Schwarzenegger, his fellow bodybuilding legend and former rival. The two have remained close over the years, bonding over their shared history and accomplishments. Ferrigno recalled visiting Schwarzenegger at his home six months prior to the interview, where they spent time playing chess and reminiscing about old times. Despite their divergent paths—Ferrigno in law enforcement, Schwarzenegger in politics—the two continue to appreciate life’s simple joys. At 73, Ferrigno is still going strong, both on screen and off, proving that his legacy extends far beyond the weights and the green paint.
In summary, “The Hermit” marks a bold new chapter in Lou Ferrigno’s career, showcasing his versatility as an actor and his willingness to explore darker, more complex roles. The film’s chilling premise, paired with Ferrigno’s compelling performance, promises to leave horror fans on the edge of their seats. Beyond the screen, Ferrigno’s reflections on life, friendship, and legacy remind us of the enduring power of resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself.
