AceShowbiz - Taylor Kitsch is well-known for embodying gripping characters, but his role in Netflix's "American Primeval" has brought significant challenges both on and off the screen. Playing the enigmatic Isaac, Kitsch faced severe physical trials, including injuries that tested his resilience.

During the filming of a fight scene for the second episode, Kitsch suffered a broken foot. "The guy was a big boy, so when he landed on my foot, I knew it was broken," he recalled. Despite the injury, Kitsch soldiered on for the remainder of the day. However, a medical consultation revealed the need for immediate surgery.

Post-surgery, Kitsch endured a painful recovery phase that confined him to a couch for six weeks and an additional six weeks in a boot. "You have to cut all these nerves out, and that made my foot colder a lot quicker, so we were kind of battling that for a while," he described. Nevertheless, his commitment to the project remained unwavering.

Beyond the grueling stunts, "American Primeval" demanded extensive physical preparation. Kitsch lost significant weight to portray Isaac, a character grappling with a profound loss and lack of purpose. His transformation was assisted by cowboy training camps and horse riding - activities he found unexpectedly strenuous. Living in Montana, he utilized resources like a friend's ranch to hone his horsemanship skills.

"Working with horses is like dealing with a child," Kitsch noted. The unpredictable nature of horses posed its own set of challenges, but with the help of his experienced double and wranglers, he navigated these hurdles gracefully.

Kitsch's role in "American Primeval" marks his fifth collaboration with director Pete Berg. Since their initial project, "Friday Night Lights", in 2006, their professional relationship has evolved into a brotherly bond. "He took a chance on me with FNL," Kitsch said. This mutual trust has emboldened Kitsch to take creative risks. "When you have almost 20 years working together off and on, it's already there."

For Kitsch, "American Primeval" represents a raw, historically immersive experience akin to "Braveheart". He is eager to continue exploring complex characters and storytelling. "I would love to do something like this again," he enthused.

"American Primeval" premieres on January 9 on Netflix, promising an intense and authentic portrayal of the frontier era, underscored by Kitsch's unwavering dedication and grit.