Brendan Fraser, known for his charismatic roles in ’90s hits like Encino Man and George of the Jungle, earned superstar status with his leading role in The Mummy franchise. While these films were a box office success, they also marked a period of intense physical strain for Fraser, who was passionate about performing his own stunts. However, this dedication once led to a frightening incident on set that could have had severe consequences.
During the filming of one of the iconic scenes in The Mummy, Fraser’s commitment to authenticity in his performance resulted in a near-fatal accident. Stephen Sommers, the director of the first two films of the franchise, recounted the harrowing experience when Fraser insisted on a particularly risky stunt involving a noose.
“Brendan was always gung-ho,” Sommers told The Hollywood Reporter. “He was like, ‘Make the noose really tight on me.’”
Unfortunately, the pressure on his carotid arteries caused him to pass out, leaving him unconscious on set. The crew was quick to respond, and Fraser regained consciousness within seconds, his first bewildered words being, “What happened?”
The Toll of Fame and Physical Demands
Fraser’s inclination towards performing his own stunts was partly driven by a deeper, more personal struggle. In an interview with The Telegraph, he revealed that his actions were fueled by self-loathing and a harsh self-critique tied to his rapid ascent in Hollywood.
“Absolutely there was self-loathing,” Fraser admitted. “I think on some level I felt I deserved [a beating], and wanted to be the one who got in the first punch.”
This mentality, however, took a significant toll on his health. Over the years, the physical demands of his roles, coupled with his refusal to use stunt doubles, led to multiple surgeries, including a partial knee replacement and a lumbar laminectomy. These procedures were necessary due to the cumulative injuries he sustained from years of stunt work, highlighting the often overlooked risks actors face when they choose to perform their own stunts.
Brendan Fraser nearly died while filming The Mummy. His costar, Rachel Weisz, said he "stopped breathing and had to be resuscitated" during a scene where his character is hanged.#movies#movie #FunFact pic.twitter.com/v8ZOBpp5W7
— Film Centar (@FilmCentar) December 5, 2021
The Legacy of “The Mummy”
Despite the risks, Fraser’s performances in The Mummy and its sequel, The Mummy Returns, are celebrated for their blend of adventure, horror, and humor, contributing significantly to the films’ success. These movies remain popular to this day, available for streaming on platforms like Peacock, where new fans can witness Fraser’s daring physical acting.
Fraser’s experiences on the set of The Mummy serve as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers in the film industry, particularly for actors deeply committed to their roles. His story is not just one of survival but also a testament to the dedication some actors have to bringing their characters to life, regardless of the personal cost. As Fraser continues to captivate audiences with his performances, his journey through triumphs and trials remains a compelling chapter in Hollywood history.