Disney has released a new featurette, Tron: Ares | Training Athena. It offers fans a thrilling glimpse into Jodie Turner-Smith’s preparation as Athena. She explains the physical, mental, and emotional demands of stepping into the Grid. The film arrives in theaters and IMAX on October 10, 2025.
Training for the Role of Athena
Turner-Smith calls the suit an opponent. It is heavy and restrictive, forcing her to rethink stamina and movement. “I thought I was training for stunts and wire work—but really, I was training to be able to wear the suit,” she said. Her training included Pilates and weightlifting, helping her build strength and prevent injury.
Wire Work, Stunts, and Battles
The new footage shows Turner-Smith in combat training and aerial scenes. Wire rigs added complexity, demanding endurance under the suit’s weight. From lightcycle pursuits to battles, her preparation ensures Athena matches Jared Leto’s Ares in every sequence. As a result, she became more agile and confident with each stunt.
Metaphor in Motion
Beyond the physical grind, Turner-Smith views the costume as a metaphor. The restrictions mirror Athena’s struggle between digital code and human identity. This mix makes the performance both physical and emotional. Therefore, every movement on screen adds meaning to the story.
Who is Athena?
Jodie Turner-Smith’s Athena is a strong new addition to the Tron legacy. She pushed her limits and turned those struggles into performance. As a result, Athena embodies the fight between humanity and technology. Disney’s spotlight on her training has increased excitement for Tron: Ares.
