By John Q. Hosedrinker Crew Member Dies Following Accident On Marvel Studios’ ‘Wonder Man’ Production
Losing a loved one is never easy, but losing them due to a workplace accident is even more devastating. This was the tragic reality for a crew member on the set of Marvel Studios’ ‘Wonder Man’ production. As someone who has worked in the industry for years, this news hits close to home.
I still vividly remember an incident that occurred while I was working at a grip and lighting house. A fellow crew member lost his life on the set of G.I. Joe 2. He was on a scissor lift going up a narrow ramp when it tragically fell off. The production company asked us to store the ramp as ‘evidence’, but it became evident that no proper care was taken to preserve it. They never returned for it, leaving us all questioning their motives.
It breaks my heart to think that a production company would send a PA to deliver the devastating news of a crew member’s death to their family. PAs are already treated as glorified gophers, and this task was completely inappropriate. It is the duty of the production company to handle such delicate matters with care and compassion. The mismanagement of this situation only adds to the twisted mess surrounding this tragedy.
As a stage hand supervisor working in live entertainment, safety is always a priority for my riggers. They are harnessed and clipped in 100% of the time. In the event of a fall, we have systems in place to ensure their quick and safe rescue within 12 minutes. Hearing that this crew member was working in the rafters without proper fall protection is deeply troubling. It raises questions about the safety protocols that should have been in place and the lack of supervision on set.
The tragedy of losing a crew member’s life should never be overshadowed by the promotion of a movie. It is appalling to see the way the news article seems more focused on advertising ‘Wonder Man’ rather than acknowledging the loss of a valuable member of the crew. We should be honoring this individual and reflecting on the urgent need for safer working conditions in the industry, instead of getting caught up in debates about the superhero’s relevance.
Furthermore, it is disheartening to learn that ‘Wonder Man’ is a character that has a history of frequently dying in the comics. This coincidence adds an eerie layer to the tragic events surrounding the production. It shows a disconnect between the people making these films and the real-life consequences that can occur on set. It feels as though the industry is valuing profit over human lives, and that is absolutely despicable.
As conversations arise about AI taking over certain job roles within the industry, it’s important to remember that behind every job title are real people with families and loved ones. The idea that human casualties could be reduced by replacing them with machines is a double-edged sword. While it may decrease the risk of accidents, it would also leave countless individuals unemployed. We must find a balance that prioritizes safety without sacrificing livelihoods.
In the end, this tragedy serves as a reminder that the Hollywood system needs a serious overhaul. Crew members should not have to risk their lives for the sake of a movie. Production companies must prioritize safety and invest in proper training and equipment. It’s time to shine a spotlight on the real heroes behind the scenes and ensure that their lives are valued just as much as the actors we see on screen.
Rest in peace to the crew member who lost their life on the set of ‘Wonder Man’. Your sacrifice will not be forgotten, and I hope that your tragic passing serves as a catalyst for change within the industry. Let’s create an environment where safety is paramount and the lives of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes are valued above all else.