Matt Damon’s stunt double Devyn Dalton has been hailed for having “the greatest arms I’ve ever seen,” a compliment that has catapulted the 35-year-old Canadian into the global spotlight. In Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster The Odyssey, Dalton stands in for Damon in a pivotal scene where the hero faces giant cannibals, using her 4ft 6in frame and muscular physique to make the actor appear dwarfed. This article explores Dalton’s remarkable career and the growing recognition of female stunt performers.
Who Is Devyn Dalton? The Stunt Double Behind Matt Damon
Devyn Dalton is a professional stunt performer and actress from Canada, standing at just 4ft 6in (137cm). Her compact stature and powerful arms made her the perfect choice to double for Matt Damon in scenes requiring the hero to look small against towering enemies. Dalton began acting at age nine, but her passion for storytelling through physical performance led her into stunt work—a discipline she describes as “telling tales through the body, through her own strength.”
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How Dalton Landed the Role in The Odyssey
Dalton was cast through professional stunt networks and coordinators, not an open call. Her unique body type and athleticism set her apart, and her performance in the Laestrygonian confrontation has become a talking point. In an interview with the Guardian, she admitted that Damon’s shoutout “completely caught me by surprise,” but she treasures the recognition.
Why Female Stunt Performers Deserve More Recognition
Dalton’s story highlights a broader issue: female stunt doubles often go unnoticed despite their incredible skill. She told the Guardian, “We celebrate men who build careers around being powerful… so why shouldn’t women be celebrated for that too?” Her biceps have even gained their own fan club, as she joked, “Apparently my biceps have their own fanclub right now, which definitely wasn’t on my 2026 prediction.”
The Impact of Social Media and Press Attention
After Damon’s comments on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Dalton’s phone “absolutely exploded.” She is currently filming in New Zealand and never expected global attention. This viral moment underscores how a single compliment can transform a career, especially for behind-the-scenes professionals.

Comparison: Stunt Doubles vs. Actors – Physical Demands
| Aspect | Stunt Double | Actor |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Perform dangerous or physically demanding scenes | Portray character emotionally and verbally |
| Training | Extensive martial arts, gymnastics, and strength conditioning | Acting classes, voice coaching, and limited physical prep |
| Recognition | Often uncredited or overshadowed | High public profile and awards |
| Risk Level | High – injuries common | Moderate – depends on scene |
Key Takeaways from Devyn Dalton’s Success
- Female stunt performers are breaking stereotypes and gaining deserved acclaim.
- Unique physical attributes can be an asset, not a limitation.
- Social media and celebrity endorsements can amplify unsung heroes.
- Stunt work is a legitimate and demanding career path for women.