Tom Cruise’s bold portrayal of pilot Barry Seal in the 2017 film “American Made” took a tragic turn during filming. The production involved three pilots—Carlos Berl, Jimmy Lee Garland, and Andrew Purwin—flying a twin-engine Aerostar 600 in Colombia. Unfortunately, the September 2015 crash resulted in the loss of two lives and severe injuries to Garland. Subsequent lawsuits filed by the families alleged negligence and raised questions about safety measures in the filmmaking process.
Carlos Berl, although experienced, was unfamiliar with the Aerostar and had voiced safety concerns before the flight. Jimmy Lee Garland, a pilot-mechanic, also served as Tom Cruise’s double in the film. Andrew Purwin, known for his inclination towards risky stunts, had a controversial aviation record. The crash, ultimately attributed to bad weather, occurred under intense pressure to depart immediately.
The aftermath of the tragedy led to legal battles, with claims of pressured flying, compromised planes, and dishonest qualifications. The lawsuits, highlighting the film’s impact on safety, vetting, and regulatory processes in movie production, were concluded in 2019 with an undisclosed settlement.
It’s noteworthy that similar aerial risks were present during the filming of “Top Gun” in 1985. “American Made,” despite its continued popularity on streaming platforms, stands as a poignant reminder of the inherent hazards involved in cinematic feats and the critical importance of prioritizing safety measures in film production.
WHO IS THIS ACTOR, WHO WAS LIVING WITH $150 A MONTH, AND NOW HAS A FARM WITH HIS FAMILY
Renowned in the movie industry, this actor recently clinched a Golden Globe for his standout performance in an HBO project. Surprisingly, prior to his foray into television, he had never actually watched any of his own performances.
In a candid interview, he confessed his initial skepticism towards TV projects, stating: “If my agent had called me and said, ‘I think you should do a series,’ I would have fired my agent…”
However, it was his actress wife who ultimately persuaded him to reconsider. He fondly recalled the joy of sharing the screen with her and attending award ceremonies together.
Reflecting on his wife’s versatile acting career, he drew inspiration from the legendary Meryl Streep, noting: “You know, when I started to see her film work, you know, she does one part, and then she does another part, and it’s like barely recognizable, and to me, that was what I had always envisioned being an actor was, to be able to put on these different hats and become different people”.
This accomplished actor, none other than the charismatic 65-year-old Kevin Bacon, has journeyed from struggles to stardom, finding solace and happiness alongside his wife.
During a recent chat with Kelly Clarkson, Bacon reminisced about his humble beginnings. In 1976, he made the leap from Philadelphia to New York, where he had previously visited with his sister.
Arriving in the Big Apple, Bacon initially bunked with his sister until he could secure his own place. With just $150 to his name for the month, he stumbled upon a makeshift living situation advertised in The Village Voice. “Artists, actors, musicians, residents” were welcomed, and he found himself in what he describes as “basically a flophouse”.
For four years, he shared a space with a pianist in a rental office, unable to afford a proper apartment. Despite the challenges, Bacon’s determination and talent eventually paved the way to success, leading him to cross paths with his future wife, Kyra Sedgwick.
Their serendipitous encounter occurred in 1987 on the set of “Lemon Sky”. Bacon was smitten from the start, though Sedgwick needed a bit more convincing. After some persistence, their first date unfolded, marked by laughter and a deep connection that sealed their fate.
“We’ve always been each other’s biggest support and fans. A sense of humor is crucial. He is very freaking funny”, Sedgwick fondly remarked.
Together, they navigated the journey of parenthood, raising two children, Travis and Sosie, who are now adults. For Bacon, being a father is paramount, as he strives to instill values of honesty, integrity, and compassion in his children, emphasizing the importance of caring for the world and each other.
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