ATLANTA, Georgia – Two individuals were hospitalized and several crew members were injured during the production of the film “The Pickup,” starring Eddie Murphy. The incident occurred when a car and truck collided while shooting a scene for the movie, which is currently being produced by Amazon MGM Studios. All safety precautions were reportedly taken, and the scene had been rehearsed beforehand, according to a statement from a studio spokesperson.
The accident took place outside of Atlanta and was the result of a truck malfunctioning and striking a car. Although the injuries ranged from bumps and bruises to broken bones, all affected crew members are expected to fully recover. None of the film’s stars, including Eddie Murphy, Keke Palmer, and Pete Davidson, were present on set at the time of the incident.
An individual close to the production, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the accident as a “completely freak accident” and highlighted that it did not involve a complicated or dangerous stunt. The scene in question was being filmed by a second unit, responsible for shooting less essential scenes not involving the main actors or director.
While the studio did not provide specific details regarding the crew members’ injuries or roles, they expressed their concern for the well-being of the entire cast and crew. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, the union representing most film crew members, has initiated an inquiry into the accident.
Directed by Tim Story, known for films like “Barbershop” and “Fantastic Four,” “The Pickup” has been filming in and around Atlanta since February 20. Despite the incident, the production is expected to proceed on schedule, and no delays are anticipated.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks involved in film productions and the importance of adhering to safety protocols. Movie sets are known for their fast-paced and dynamic environments, making it crucial for all involved parties to prioritize the well-being of cast and crew members. The investigation into the accident will likely shed light on any safety issues or procedural gaps that need to be addressed.