The 64-year-old is set to resume his role as both an actor and a producer on Rust after he was formally charged in the case of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins’ fatal shooting.
Production on the western film, which initially halted in 2021 in the wake of Halyna’s death, will recommence this spring with original crew members, according to a press release obtained by E! News. In addition, the crew will see new faces, including Halyna’s husband Matthew Hutchins as an executive producer and Bianca Cline, who will serve as the new cinematographer.
“Though bittersweet, I am grateful that a brilliant and dedicated new production team joining former cast and crew are committed to completing what Halyna and I started,” director Joel Souza said in a statement. “My every effort on this film will be devoted to honoring Halyna’s legacy and making her proud. It is a privilege to see this through on her behalf.
According to the release, safety officers Gary Jensen and Paul Jordan of Tenet Production Safety have also been added to the crew. “The production will continue to utilize union crew members and will bar any use of working weapons and any form of ammunition,” the release noted. “Live ammunition is — and always was — prohibited on set.”
The production announcement comes more than one year after a loaded prop gun held by Alec was discharged on set, killing Halyna and injuring Joel. The actor and armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were formally charged with involuntary manslaughter for the shooting in January, while Rust’s assistant director David Halls signed a plea agreement with the charge of negligent use of a deadly weapon, according to the New Mexico District Attorney’s Office.
Source: eonline
In other news – Nadia Nakai makes her first public appearance since AKA’s death
Nadia Nakai has been spotted for the first time since the death of her boyfriend AKA, real name Kiernan Forbes, in Durban last Friday.
The female muso appeared at a press conference in Johannesburg alongside AKA’s family. Nadia – who has been dating AKA since late 2021 – was pictured in all-black clothing. Learn more
