Actor Says Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Has Changed His Confidence

Nearly two decades after Superbad became a comedy classic, Jonah Hill says he’s ready to challenge anyone who still sees him as the “fat guy from Superbad.”

During a recent appearance on the SmartLess podcast, the 42-year-old actor joked that his passion for Brazilian jiu-jitsu has given him a whole new level of confidence. While his comments were made humorously, Hill said he enjoys surprising people who still associate him with the image he had early in his career.

Playful Banter on the Podcast

While chatting with hosts Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes, Hill explained that he’s become deeply invested in the martial art, even though the training can be physically demanding.

When Bateman jokingly asked who would win in a fight, Hill laughed and confidently claimed he could take on all three hosts. He added that one of the funniest parts of practicing jiu-jitsu is knowing people often underestimate him based on his appearance in Superbad.

A Long Journey With Body Image

Hill has spoken publicly for years about the emotional impact of growing up in the spotlight while facing constant comments about his weight and appearance.

In previous interviews, he explained that becoming famous as a teenager meant enduring years of criticism, something that affected his self-esteem well into adulthood. He has said it took years to separate his identity from the public perception created by his early movie roles.

More Than a Physical Transformation

Over the years, Hill has undergone several noticeable physical transformations, but he has consistently emphasized that his greatest personal growth has been mental rather than cosmetic.

He has encouraged people to avoid judging others based on appearance, saying that many adults continue carrying insecurities formed during their teenage years, regardless of fame or success.

Busy On and Off the Screen

Alongside his fitness journey, Hill continues to expand his acting career. He recently appeared with a dramatically different look, sporting a shaved head and beard for the upcoming Apple Original film Outcome, which also stars Keanu Reeves and Cameron Diaz.

While his playful comments about jiu-jitsu grabbed headlines, they also highlighted how far Hill has come from the self-conscious young actor audiences first met nearly 20 years ago.