Since its November 2019 launch, Disney+ has created a number of hit shows that fans just can’t get enough of. And a lot of them are coming from Marvel Studios. First, there was WandaVision, followed by The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and Loki. Now, we also have What If…?, Ms. Marvel, Moon Knight, Hawkeye, She-Hulk, and Echo.
Disney and Marvel also have several series in development, including Secret Invasion, Ironheart, Armor Wars, and Wonder Man.
Sadly, we have learned that one of the crew members working on Wonder Man has died after an on-set accident at the CBS Radford Studios. According to Deadline, the man was working as a rigger and fell from the rafters.
A rigger working at Radford Studios in Studio City died today after falling from a catwalk, Deadline has learned. The male crew member was working on the set of Marvel Studios’ Wonder Man, but the series was not filming at the time.
The Los Angeles Police Department later confirmed the man’s death but did not immediately release his name.
Wonder Man was set to begin production next month, after being delayed due to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes that occurred over the spring and summer of 2023. We do not know if Marvel will delay production further because of the man’s tragic death.
Shortly after news of the man’s death broke, a Marvel spokesperson shared a brief statement:
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and friends, and our support is behind the investigation into the circumstances of this accident.”
Related: After Near-Death Accident, This Marvel Star Is Ready to Return to the MCU
An investigation is underway and is being performed by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health, also known as OSHA. OSHA typically steps in when a death occurs at any workplace.
The unnamed crew member was a member of the IATSE union — the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees. It is an incredibly large union, which represents those who work behind the scenes on film and television productions.
Related: Disney Drops Marvel Star Immediately Following Guilty Verdict
IATSE also released a statement, saying that they were working closely with OSHA to determine exactly what happened.
“Everyone in the IA family is shocked and deeply saddened by this tragic loss. We are working to support our member’s family, and his fellow members and colleagues. Safety on set is our highest priority and we will assist Cal/OSHA in their investigation in any way that we can. If you feel unsafe on set for any reason, members can call the IATSE Safety Hotline at 844-422-9273 or use our safety info app.”
Related: MCU Director Discusses New Stories and New Villains
Wonder Man is set to star Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Simon Williams, a stuntman who gains superpowers and transforms into Wonder Man. The series will also star Ben Kingsley as Trevor Slattery, who has also appeared in Iron Man 3 (2013) and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021). Demetrius Grosse will play Eric Williams, Simon’s brother, and Grim Reaper.
It has also been reported that Frozen star, Josh Gad, has been cast in an undisclosed role. The series was created by Destin Daniel Cretton, who will also serve as writer and director.
Wonder Man does not currently have a release date.
We send our deepest sympathies to the crew member’s family and loved ones.
