Stunt Accident on Set of Eddie Murphy Action Movie Leaves Multiple Crew Injured
Details are emerging of an accident that left multiple crew members injured on the Atlanta set of the new Eddie Murphy Amazon MGM Studios heist movie, The Pickup.
According to the Associated Press, the episode occurred Saturday during the filming of a second-unit stunt sequence that wasn’t considered particularly intricate or especially dangerous. Neither Murphy nor his co-stars—Keke Palmer, Pete Davidson, and Marshawn Lynch—were on-set at the time.
“Second unit” refers to a separate facet of production not involving the “first unit,” namely, the film’s stars and its primary director. Second-unit photography typically involves shooting complicated action sequences, as in the Bourne or Bond movies; or basic pick-up shots, like someone’s foot hitting a gas pedal.
The accident reportedly occurred when a truck “locked up” and hit another car performing in the scene. Several crew members were treated on set, while two were taken to the hospital. One of those hospitalized has since been released. According to the studio, the injuries ranged from minor bumps and bruises to broken bones. Each of the injured crew members is expected to make a full recovery.
“It was a completely freak accident,” said a source close to production, who wished to remain anonymous. "It wasn’t even a complicated or dangerous stunt.”
Amazon MGM Studios later released a statement to the outlet confirming that the sequence had been vigorously rehearsed before filming was undertaken, and that all proper safety requirements had been adhered to.
“Unfortunately, the sequence did not go as planned and several members of the crew were injured as a result. We are still in the process of gathering facts on what happened and why, but first and foremost our thoughts are with those who are recovering,” the studio spokesperson said. “The well-being of the entire crew and cast is our first priority, and we will continue to insist on the highest industry standards of safety while filming. All safety precautions were reviewed prior to and monitored during the shoot.”
Amazon MGM added that they don’t anticipate production will be delayed due to the accident. The Pickup has been shooting in Atlanta since late February, though the film does not yet have a release date.
The movie, about a man who gets embroiled in a heist while romancing a mysterious woman (Eva Longoria), is being directed by Tim Story (Barbershop, Ride Along).
