Gladiator II stuntman sues Paramount over burns from on-set explosion

British stuntman Edward Sarsfield is suing August Street Films, a Paramount subsidiary behind Gladiator II, over severe burns from a 2023 on-set gas explosion during a burning ship scene. He seeks £200,000 damages, with the company admitting liability but disputing injury claims. Sarsfield, 47, was playing a dead soldier in Morocco when the gas line exploded, producing 20-foot flames that ignited his costume. He suffered flash burns to 15% of his body, including his face, arms, and hands, plus knee and wrist injuries, requiring helicopter evacuation to a Marrakesh hospital. The claim details permanent scarring, mobility loss, and psychological trauma, with treatment delayed until repatriation to the UK. Paramount confirmed several crew members were hurt, calling injuries non-life-threatening, while the defence contests the alleged injuries and damages amount.