A British stuntman and actor is pursuing legal action against one of the production companies behind Gladiator II, claiming he sustained "excruciating" burns and lasting scarring following an accident during filming of a scene set on a burning vessel.
Edward Sarsfield was portraying a deceased soldier in the film during 2023 when a gas line used for special effects ignited on the ship, generating 20-foot flames that ignited his costume, according to his legal claim filed at London's High Court. According to BBC News, Sarsfield is suing August Street Films, a subsidiary of Paramount, which has acknowledged liability for the accident but has not conceded the extent of injuries or agreed to his request for £200,000 in damages.
The incident occurred during filming in Morocco in 2023, where Sarsfield was working as an extra in a sequence depicting a coastal castle under siege from an approaching vessel. Positioned only a few feet from the gas line on the port side of the ship, which had been illuminated by gas-powered flame bars to simulate fire, Sarsfield was struck without warning when the gas line ruptured.
What happened during the accident?
The explosion propelled Sarsfield forward as 20-foot tall flames erupted around him. He immediately felt intense heat and observed strips of skin peeling from his arms as his costume ignited. In panic, he ran and fell several times before escaping the flames. Colleagues responded by throwing bottles of water onto his burns, removing his costume, and applying clingfilm as emergency first aid.
The legal documents describe flash burns affecting approximately 15% of his body, including his face, arms, and hands, along with injuries to both knees and his right wrist. He was transported by helicopter to a hospital in Marrakesh, where treatment options were limited. Four days later, he was repatriated to the United Kingdom, where his wounds received more comprehensive hospital care.
What are his lasting injuries?
Sarsfield's claim states he has experienced permanent consequences from the accident. The burns left significant scarring that remains hypersensitive, requiring him to avoid sun exposure. Beyond physical injuries, he has suffered considerable physical deconditioning, with restricted mobility affecting his previously active lifestyle. Psychological symptoms have also accompanied his physical recovery, according to his legal filing.
The 47-year-old from Liverpool has worked as a stuntman and actor in various productions, including appearances in Dungeons & Dragons, Moonhaven, and pop star Troye Sivan's Party video.
What is the studio's response?
August Street Films' legal defence has stated that "no admissions are made as to the alleged injuries sustained by the Claimant," despite acknowledging liability for the accident itself. Paramount, the parent company, confirmed in 2023 that the incident occurred during a planned stunt sequence, stating that "several crew members experienced non-life-threatening injuries."
A Paramount spokesperson said at the time:
While filming a planned stunt sequence on the set of the Gladiator sequel, an accident occurred during which several crew members experienced non-life-threatening injuries. The safety and full medical services teams on-site were able to act quickly so that those who were impacted immediately received necessary care. They are all in stable condition and continue to receive treatment. The well-being of the cast and crew is of the utmost importance to us, and we have strict health and safety procedures in place on all our productions. We will continue monitoring the situation and taking all necessary precautions as we resume production.
What is the context of the film?
Gladiator II, released in 2024, served as the long-awaited sequel to the acclaimed 2000 drama that starred Russell Crowe. The follow-up was directed by Sir Ridley Scott and featured Paul Mescal and Denzel Washington in leading roles. The production faced significant challenges during filming, with this accident being one of several incidents affecting crew members during the shoot.
Sarsfield, August Street Films, and Paramount have declined to provide further comment on the ongoing legal proceedings.
