During the filming of Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood in 2010, Russell Crowe, known for his role in Gladiator, faced a challenging stunt that resulted in both his legs being broken.
Speaking to PEOPLE magazine, Crowe disclosed that the incident occurred when he leaped off a castle portcullis onto rugged and unforgiving terrain.
He admitted that proper precautions were overlooked due to the urgency of capturing the scene before daylight faded.
Despite the imminent danger and discomfort, Crowe felt compelled to carry on with the stunt.
Surrounded by a bustling set with numerous extras, flying arrows, and blazing burn pots, he found himself committed to the action.
The moment he made the leap, he anticipated the excruciating pain that awaited him, likening it to a surge of electricity coursing through his body.
Subsequently, navigating through the remainder of the filming became increasingly challenging, with even walking proving to be a daunting task.
Remarkably, Crowe opted not to seek medical attention immediately after the incident, nor did he share details of his injuries with the production team.
He persevered through the pain, never taking a break from work to address his physical well-being.
Reflecting on his unwavering dedication, Crowe attributed his decision to continue filming to his devotion to the art of cinema.
It wasn’t until a decade later that Crowe learned the true extent of his injuries when a doctor pointed out remnants of fractures in both his shin bones.
The actor was taken aback by the revelation, as he had downplayed the severity of the incident in his mind.
Recalling the doctor’s inquiry regarding the timeline of the injury, Crowe realized the enduring impact of the stunt he performed on the set of Robin Hood.
In hindsight, Crowe acknowledged that his subsequent role as Jor-El in Man of Steel in 2013 likely contributed to the healing process of his legs.
Engaging in intensive physical training for the portrayal of Superman’s father potentially played a role in the gradual recovery of his injuries over time.
Crowe emphasized the demanding nature of the training regimen, coupled with periods of rest, as pivotal factors in aiding his recuperation.
Currently, Crowe’s latest action-packed film, Land of Bad, is captivating audiences in theaters.
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