Stuntman sues Gladiator II producers over on-set explosion burns

British stuntman Edward Sarsfield is suing August Street Films, a Paramount subsidiary behind Gladiator II, over severe burns from a 2023 on-set explosion. He claims permanent scarring and is seeking £200,000 in damages. Sarsfield, playing a dead soldier, was near a gas line when it exploded, igniting his costume with 20-foot flames. He suffered flash burns to 15% of his body, including his face and arms, and was airlifted to a Moroccan hospital. The company admits liability for the accident but disputes the injury extent and damages. Paramount previously confirmed several crew members were hurt, calling the injuries non-life-threatening.