SusiGo wrote:

But this is what actors do. Just think of Michael Fassbender in "Hunger" or Robert De Niro for "Raging Bull". As long as they do it sensibly or under medical supervision it should be fine. I am sure Benedict cares enough about his health not take any risks. 

 
I know - I'm just being silly, I guess!
Still - he's never looked better than he does right now - I wonder what on earth he's doing that he needs to lose weight for??

clareiow wrote:

I wonder if it's something behind the camera as opposed to in front of it. He's always wanted to make a film....

I too have read that he would like to be a director in the future. I just hope  that he won't stop playing in films at any point of his career. I mean, he's ridiculously talented as an actor to stop acting or act less / direct more.
That said, he can do whatever he likes, obviously - after all, he may be ridiculously talented in directing as well.
 

Ay dieting for a role would be under medical supervision. Actors do all sorts of things for roles, get fit, get fat, dye their hair, etc. It really is just part of the job. If he wasn't prepared to do this it would limit the roles available to him. Personally, I don't think he has got the experience in front of the camera yet to be able to direct from behind the camera. Possibly stage direction though.