Bomb Scare on Set: Angelina Jolie and Richard Madden Evacuated from Marvel’s The Eternals Filming

A day of routine filming for Marvel’s highly anticipated blockbuster, The Eternals, took a terrifying turn when an unexploded bomb was reportedly discovered on set. The alarming find on November 4th sent shockwaves through the production, leading to the immediate evacuation of its star-studded cast and dedicated crew. Among those quickly rushed to safety were Hollywood icons Angelina Jolie, 44, and Richard Madden, 33, whose roles as central figures in the upcoming superhero epic place them at the heart of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s next big chapter.

The incident, which could have had devastating consequences, underscored the unpredictable challenges of filming in diverse and historically significant locations. An insider close to the production shared the palpable fear with UK’s The Sun, stating, “It was obviously terrifying. Some of the biggest stars in the world were on set and nobody was taking any chances.” The immediate priority was the safety and well-being of everyone involved, a protocol that was swiftly and effectively implemented.

The Unexpected Discovery in Fuerteventura

Filming for The Eternals was underway on the picturesque Canary Island of Fuerteventura, a location chosen for its stunning natural landscapes and unique geological features that perfectly complement the cosmic scope of the Marvel narrative. However, the island’s serene beauty also harbors remnants of a tumultuous past. Historical records indicate that Fuerteventura served as a military base for Nazi forces during World War II. This crucial detail provides a chilling context for the discovery, suggesting that the unearthed device could have lain dormant for decades.

Experts speculate that the unexploded ordnance (UXO) likely dates back to the wartime era, a grim legacy that occasionally resurfaces in regions with significant military history. The discovery prompted a rapid response from local authorities and the film production team. A specialized bomb disposal crew was immediately summoned to the site to assess the device and ensure its safe removal. Their swift and professional intervention was critical in averting a potential catastrophe and allowing the production to eventually resume without further incident. While HollywoodLife.com reached out to Canary Islands officials for independent confirmation of The Sun‘s report, the general sentiment within the industry was one of relief that the situation was handled with such efficiency and without harm to any individuals.

Angelina Jolie’s Grand Entrance into the MCU

This thrilling yet unsettling event occurred as Angelina Jolie embarks on her highly anticipated debut within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, taking on the powerful role of Thena, one of the eponymous Eternals. Her involvement was met with immense excitement from fans, a sentiment she reciprocated during the official cast announcement at San Diego Comic-Con on July 20. Her surprise appearance, dressed elegantly in a sleek black dress, captivated the packed hall, signaling a major new chapter for both the actress and the MCU.

During her appearance, Jolie expressed profound enthusiasm for her new role and the collaborative spirit of the project. “I’m so excited to be here! I think what it means to be a part of the MCU, what it means to be an Eternal, what it means to be in this family,” she shared with the captivated audience. Her words highlighted not only her personal commitment but also the collective dedication of the cast and crew to bringing this ambitious story to life. “We’ve all read the script and we know what the task is and so we are going to work very, very hard.” Her statement served as a powerful declaration of intent, underscoring the serious effort and creative passion invested in The Eternals, a film poised to introduce a new pantheon of heroes to millions worldwide.

The Eternals: A New Cosmic Chapter for Marvel

The Eternals is more than just another superhero movie; it’s a profound expansion of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, delving into the cosmic origins of Earth’s protectors. The film is set to introduce an ancient race of immortal beings, sent to Earth millennia ago to protect humanity from their deviant counterparts. Angelina Jolie, as Thena, an elite Eternal warrior capable of forming weapons from cosmic energy, and Richard Madden, portraying Ikaris, an all-powerful Eternal with powers of flight and energy projection, lead this formidable ensemble. Their characters are central to the Eternals’ mission and the intricate mythology woven by Marvel.

The casting alone generated significant buzz, bringing together a diverse and highly acclaimed group of actors. Joining Jolie and Madden are stars such as Kit Harrington, who reunites with Madden after their Game of Thrones tenure, in the role of Dane Whitman (Black Knight). The incredible lineup also includes the legendary Salma Hayek as Ajak, the wise and spiritual leader of the Eternals, Kumail Nanjiani as Kingo, an Eternal who becomes a Bollywood star, Brian Tyree Henry as Phastos, an inventor, Lauren Ridloff as Makkari, the first deaf superhero in the MCU, and Don Lee as Gilgamesh, the strongest of the Eternals. This remarkable collection of talent, under the visionary direction of Chloé Zhao (who would later gain significant critical acclaim), promised a unique and emotionally resonant entry into the MCU canon, slated for release in November of 2020. The film’s ambition was clear: to offer a fresh perspective on heroism and the expansive lore of the Marvel universe.

Navigating Filming Challenges and Safety Protocols

The incident on the set of The Eternals serves as a stark reminder of the extensive planning and stringent safety protocols required for large-scale film productions, especially when shooting on location. While the glamour of Hollywood often overshadows the logistical complexities, productions of this magnitude involve hundreds of personnel, intricate sets, and the management of unexpected risks. Filming in areas with historical military activity inherently carries the risk of encountering unexploded ordnance, making detailed site surveys and preparedness plans absolutely crucial.

Major studios like Marvel, backed by Walt Disney Studios, invest heavily in ensuring the safety of their cast and crew. This includes comprehensive risk assessments, securing necessary permits, engaging local experts for site-specific challenges, and maintaining emergency response teams. The efficient evacuation of Angelina Jolie, Richard Madden, and the entire team demonstrates the efficacy of these protocols. It highlights that even with meticulous planning, unforeseen circumstances can arise, demanding quick thinking and coordinated action. The experience, while undoubtedly frightening, ultimately reinforced the importance of prioritizing human life above all production deadlines or artistic goals, showcasing a commitment to safety that is paramount in the entertainment industry. The continuation of filming after the all-clear was given speaks volumes about the resilience of the production team and their dedication to bringing the epic story of The Eternals to the big screen.

Anticipation Builds for The Eternals

Despite the brief scare, the production of The Eternals continued, fueled by the unwavering excitement of fans worldwide. The film represents a bold new direction for the MCU, moving beyond established heroes to explore deeper mythological elements and introduce characters with profound historical ties to Earth. The blend of Chloé Zhao’s distinctive directorial style, known for its naturalism and character-driven narratives, with Marvel’s signature spectacle, promises a cinematic experience unlike any other in the franchise.

The initial release date of November 2020 became a highly anticipated milestone, with audiences eager to witness Angelina Jolie and Richard Madden embody their cosmic roles alongside a truly global and diverse cast. The unexpected discovery of unexploded ordnance, while a serious concern at the time, ultimately became a footnote in the grander narrative of bringing this ambitious project to fruition. It serves as a testament to the dedication, resilience, and professionalism of everyone involved in making The Eternals a reality, ensuring that the only explosions audiences will experience are those meticulously crafted for the silver screen. The world awaits the unveiling of this new chapter in the Marvel saga, ready to embrace its ancient heroes and their timeless struggle.