Tom Ellis Evolves Workout for New CIA Role

The 'Lucifer' star has revamped his training to prepare for a more athletic character.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 6:53pm

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Tom Ellis, known for his role as Lucifer Morningstar, has evolved his workout routine to prepare for a new role in the CIA. After focusing on building muscle mass for his previous role, Ellis now aims for a more functional, athletic physique that will allow him to blend into society and perform well in fight scenes. He has had to scale back some exercises due to recent injuries but continues to prioritize core stability work and walking for mental health.

Why it matters

As actors take on different roles, they often need to adjust their physical training to match the specific demands of the character. Ellis' transition from the chiseled, aesthetic look of Lucifer to a more functional, blended-in physique for his CIA role highlights how performers must adapt their workout routines to best serve the needs of the part.

The details

Ellis explains that for his role as Lucifer, he focused on building muscle mass and aesthetics to match the character's suave, devil-like persona. However, for his new role in the CIA, he needs a more athletic, functional physique that won't draw too much attention. This has led him to incorporate more functional training, core stability work, and walking into his routine. He has had to scale back on certain exercises like pushups and pullups due to a back injury and meniscus tear, but continues to prioritize protecting his weakest areas through Pilates and physical therapy.

  • In 2019, Ellis spoke about the workout routine he used to prepare for the role of Lucifer.
  • Five years after the Lucifer series finale, Ellis is now training for his role in the CIA.

The players

Tom Ellis

A Welsh actor known for his role as Lucifer Morningstar in the TV series Lucifer, who is now preparing for a new role in the CIA.

Dr. Pat Davidson

An exercise physiologist and strength coach who spoke with Ellis about the evolution of his training.

Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S.

The fitness director at Men's Health who also spoke with Ellis about his workout routine changes.

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What they’re saying

“If the devil is going to embody a human being, he probably wants to look a certain way. For CIA, the guy is an operative who has to blend into society.”

— Tom Ellis, Actor

“Having moved to New York, what I really love about it is that I'm walking everywhere again. Consoling myself about not working out on the weekends, I make sure I get steps in. For mental health it's the best thing you can do without a shadow of a doubt.”

— Tom Ellis, Actor

What’s next

Ellis will continue his functional training and recovery work as he prepares for the physical demands of his new CIA role. Fans will be eager to see how his transformed physique fits the character when the new project is released.

The takeaway

As actors take on diverse roles, they must adapt their workout routines to match the specific physical needs of each character. Ellis' transition from the chiseled Lucifer to a more blended-in CIA operative highlights how performers balance aesthetics, function, and injury prevention to deliver authentic on-screen portrayals.