‘The Rookie’ Cast Takes on Their Own Stunts Despite Growing List of Injuries
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The cast of the popular TV show “The Rookie” is known for their dedication to their roles, especially when it comes to performing their own stunts. Despite facing a growing list of injuries, these talented actors continue to push the boundaries to deliver thrilling scenes for their audience.
Sharing their experiences during a cast panel at Epic Con Chicago in 2024, stars including Eric Winter, Melissa O’Neil, Shawn Ashmore, Alyssa Diaz, Titus Makin Jr. and Mekia Cox opened up about the challenges they faced while filming the ABC police drama. They revealed that each of them takes on their own stunts, showcasing their commitment to authenticity in their performances.
O’Neil, portraying Sgt. Lucy Chen, recounted a harrowing experience where she cracked her head open on concrete while filming a scene not just once, but twice in a row. Describing it as a “full-on concussion,” O’Neil, 37, detailed the lingering effects of the injury, including feeling nauseous and undergoing a noticeable change in her personality.
In a similar vein, Ashmore, who plays lawyer Wesley Evers, shared a frightening incident where he broke a rib while filming a scene during season 4. Recalling the moment, he mentioned feeling a sudden jolt of pain after tackling a fellow actor. It wasn’t until his wife insisted he seek medical attention days later that he discovered the extent of his injury.
Winter, taking on the role of Sgt. Tim Bradford, also had his fair share of mishaps on set. He revealed an incident where he accidentally injured Diaz, who portrays Det. Angela Lopez, during a fight scene. Winter humorously mentioned his enthusiasm for the show “Cobra Kai” as a precursor to the mishap, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of performing stunts.
As the show’s popularity has soared since its debut in 2018, lead actor Nathan Fillion has acknowledged the added pressure that comes with a growing audience. Speaking at San Diego Comic-Con, Fillion explained that the show’s increasing recognition brought both excitement and challenges, with fans often shouting their support while filming on location.
Despite the risks and occasional setbacks, the cast of “The Rookie” remains dedicated to their craft and passionate about delivering a high-octane viewing experience for their fans. With the upcoming season 8 set to premiere on January 6, viewers can look forward to more heart-pounding stunts and on-screen adventures from this talented ensemble.
In conclusion, the commitment of “The Rookie” cast to performing their own stunts, despite the inherent dangers, showcases their unwavering dedication to their craft. Their resilience in the face of injuries and willingness to push the boundaries for authentic storytelling is a testament to their professionalism and passion for their roles. As fans eagerly anticipate the new season, it’s evident that the cast’s fearless approach to filming will continue to captivate audiences and elevate the show’s on-screen excitement.