Canadian stunt performer Devyn Dalton has drawn widespread attention after actor Matt Damon praised her muscular arms during an interview about his latest film. Dalton serves as Damon’s stunt double in Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s "The Odyssey," in which Damon portrays the character Odysseus.

The actor’s comments came during a discussion of a key battle scene in the film, where Damon clarified that the well-defined biceps visible on screen actually belong to Dalton, not him. The scene employs a visual technique known as forced perspective to portray Odysseus’ army as miniature figures. Dalton, standing at 4-foot-6 compared to Damon’s approximately 5-foot-10 height, appeared in the shot wielding a sword as part of the illusion. An image from this sequence is featured on one of the film’s posters.

Dalton, 34, began her career as a dancer before transitioning to stunt work in 2011, with early credits including the "Planet of the Apes" trilogy. More recently, she has performed stunts for projects such as "Weapons" and the television adaptation of "The Last of Us." “The Odyssey” marks her first time doubling for a male lead in a Hollywood major film, an uncommon role in an industry where women constitute just over 20 percent of stunt performers, according to the SAG-AFTRA union.

In a recent interview, Dalton noted that doubling for male actors is rare but increasingly feasible due to advances in wardrobe, hair, and makeup, which allow for greater flexibility regardless of gender. She emphasized the importance of matching the physicality and specific skill set required for a role, explaining that her approach includes meticulously studying an actor’s movements to convincingly replicate them on screen.

Dalton described the continual training regimen necessary for stunt performers, which includes disciplines tailored to various environments. For instance, she has undergone specialized training in underwater fight sequences, involving water safety, breath holding, and coping with cold temperatures while in full costume.

Despite the inherent risks of stunt work, Dalton said her moments of fear stem primarily from her commitment to high performance standards. She also expressed gratitude for Damon’s public acknowledgment of her work, calling it a rare but appreciated recognition since stunt doubles often remain unseen by audiences.

Dalton continues to balance challenging roles in high-intensity action scenes while maintaining discretion about her projects with family, reflecting the demanding and often behind-the-scenes nature of her profession.