In a new book shedding light on the making of the 2015 action film Mad Max: Fury Road, further details have emerged about the strained relationship between Charlize Theron and Tom Hardy during filming in the Namibian desert.

The book, titled Blood, Sweat & Chrome: The Wild and True Story of Mad Max: Fury Road by Kyle Buchanan, reveals that Theron allegedly felt threatened by Hardy’s behavior to the extent that she required on-set protection.

Hardy portrayed the title character, following in the footsteps of Mel Gibson, while Theron took on the role of Imperator Furiosa, a pivotal character who rebels against the antagonist Immortan Joe (played by Hugh Keays-Byrne) to aid Max in safeguarding young women.

Theron and other crew members recounted instances of unprofessional conduct exhibited by Hardy, such as chronic tardiness that left cast and crew waiting for hours on set.

On one occasion, Hardy’s three-hour delay led Theron, a new mother at the time, to remain prepared for filming while her baby was being cared for nearby.

The tension escalated when Theron confronted Hardy upon his belated arrival, expressing her dismay at his lack of respect and suggesting penalties for his actions.

Witnesses described Hardy’s response as confrontational, prompting Theron to request on-set protection due to feeling threatened by his demeanor.

Despite efforts to address the situation, including assigning a producer to assist Theron, the actress still felt vulnerable and isolated on set.

Theron reflected on the challenging shoot, acknowledging her initial fear and the lack of clarity regarding the events unfolding.

Theron emphasized the need for a supportive and inclusive working environment, expressing disappointment in the handling of the situation by the production team.

The conflicting dynamics between Theron and Hardy, though possibly contributing to on-screen intensity, were primarily attributed to Hardy’s obstinacy.

As the filming progressed, there were signs of a thaw in the strained relationship between Theron and Hardy, coinciding with their characters’ evolving connection in the narrative.

Observers noted Hardy’s methodical approach to his role, suggesting a correlation between his performance and personal interactions.

Mad Max: Fury Road, directed by George Miller, received critical acclaim and multiple accolades, including six Oscars in 2016.

A forthcoming installment in the franchise will delve into Furiosa’s backstory, with Anya Taylor-Joy slated to assume the role previously held by Theron.