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‘Gladiator 2’ stunt accident injures multiple crew members

Russell Crowe, dressed as a gladiator, lunges forward with a sword and shield while yelling.
Russell Crowe, in a scene from “Gladiator.”
(Jaap Buitendijk / Universal Studios via Associated Press)
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Several crew members working on the set of “Gladiator 2” were injured while filming in Morocco earlier this week.

The crew had been shooting a “planned stunt sequence” on Wednesday when an accident occurred, leading to non-life-threatening injuries, a spokesperson for Paramount Pictures told The Times, without disclosing the details of how the incident unfolded.

“While filming a planned stunt sequence on the set of the ‘Gladiator’ sequel, an accident occurred during which several crew members experienced non-life-threatening injuries,” the spokesperson told The Times on Friday. “The safety and full medical services teams on-site were able to act quickly so that those who were impacted immediately received necessary care. They are all in stable condition and continue to receive treatment.”

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According to Variety, which first reported the news, six people were injured, four of whom remain hospitalized with burn injuries.

Cast members weren’t harmed during the accident, Variety reports.

“The well-being of the cast and crew is of the utmost importance to us, and we have strict health and safety procedures in place on all our productions,” Paramount’s statement continues. “We will continue monitoring the situation and taking all necessary precautions as we resume production.”

The Paramount-backed sequel to the 2000 blockbuster began filming earlier this year and stars Oscar-nominated Irish actor Paul Mescal, with Ridley Scott returning to direct. Other confirmed cast members include Pedro Pascal and Denzel Washington. The plot for the film is being kept under wraps. The original movie won five Academy Awards in 2001, including best picture.

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Mescal will be playing Lucius, the son of Lucilla and nephew of Commodus (played by Joaquin Phoenix in the original.) Connie Nielsen is reprising her role as Lucilla and Derek Jacobi is returning to portray Gracchus. “Stranger Things” fan-favorite Joseph Quinn will play Emperor Caracalla.

The second installment hits theaters Nov. 22, 2024.

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