Gerard Butler’s Most Terrifying On-Set Injuries: ‘300’ and More!

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Zack Snyder’s film titled “300” is based on Frank Miller’s comic book of the same name, showcasing the intense struggle between 300 Spartan warriors and the vast Persian army during the Battle of Thermopylae. Interestingly, the production process for this movie mirrored the battle it portrays, with the cast and stunt team facing their own challenges to bring this epic story to life. The lead role is played by Gerard Butler, who portrays King Leonidas, commander of the 300 Spartans. Although these actors didn’t sacrifice their lives like their characters did, there were undoubtedly some injuries sustained during filming.

While discussing Den of Thieves 2: Pantera with People Magazine, Butler shared memories from filming 300, where he and his cast endured numerous injuries. It seems giving hundreds of actors and extras sharp swords was not the most prudent choice. “I can still recall that every day someone had to be rushed to the hospital,” the actor reminisced. Unfortunately, Butler didn’t disclose which of his former colleagues suffered the most severe injury, but he did share some gruesome tales that will make you flinch.

“I remember every day somebody was getting taken to the hospital.”

In his account, Butler described two instances: once he turned around to find an enemy with a spear in his eye, another time he saw someone broken-ankled nearby. He emphasized the intensity of these moments, stating they were “insane.” Released in 2006, the film 300 received mixed reviews from critics but strong support from fans. Many consider it Zack Snyder’s best work, alongside Watchmen. Fortunately, these injuries sustained during production seemed to have been worthwhile for both Butler and Snyder in creating such an enjoyable, albeit historically inaccurate, action film for viewers.

Gerard Butler Nearly Shot Angelina Jolie In the Face

During the filming of 300, Gerard Butler took on the role of receiving injuries, but when it came to movies like Laura Croft: Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life from 2003 and P.S. I Love You in 2017, he switched gears to doling out damage instead. As he put it, “I gave Hilary Swank [his co-star in P.S. I Love You] a head scar… she has a scar.” However, that was minor compared to another incident, as Butler recounted, “I almost shot Angelina Jolie in the face.” These and other moments were part of his on-set experiences.

In simpler terms, “I found myself in an inverted position, descending. I needed to discharge a firearm, but had no guidance as to where the bullet would land. Consequently, I was merely shooting without aim. I’ve experienced being hit by bullets, shell casings, and explosions. Once, an entire camera setup even fell on Hilary Swank.

Despite rigorous safety measures such as rehearsals, skilled crew members, and secure props on movie sets, Butler continues to experience accidents. During the filming of Chasing Mavericks, a 2012 surfing drama, Butler was overwhelmed by a massive wave set and narrowly escaped drowning. Reflecting on that incident, Butler recalled:

Initially, I believed my work was complete. Suddenly, I needed immediate assistance, was rushed to the hospital, given anesthesia, and received a defibrillator shock. In other words, it was quite an ordeal.

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2025-01-15 20:08