A stuntman was offered one million dollars from Sylvester Stallone’s own funds to perform a record-breaking stunt that became legendary.
Stunt performers often don’t receive the recognition they deserve, despite their crucial role in many of the thrilling scenes in blockbuster films.
Think about it, the most jaw-dropping moments in your favorite movies likely involve a stunt professional who is ready to put everything on the line for that unforgettable shot.
It is evident that the job carries significant risks, something Sylvester Stallone is very familiar with.
Stallone not only frequently performs his own stunts but also encountered a notable situation during the filming of Renny Harlin’s 1993 movie “Cliffhanger.”
One of the film’s most intense sequences occurs at the beginning and features a stunt that would likely be entirely done with CGI if produced today.
Fortunately, the decision was made to execute it as practically as possible, resulting in a highly entertaining scene.
In this sequence, John Lithgow’s character, Eric Qualen, and his team attempt to steal $100 million by transferring three suitcases filled with uncirculated currency.
The robbers and the loot are zip-lined between two flying planes, creating a scenario with significant potential for mishaps.
Stuntman Simon Crane accepted the challenge, sliding between two aircraft on a cable at 15,000 feet, resulting in the most expensive aerial stunt ever, which even earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.
The stunt was so dangerous that it couldn’t be filmed in Europe due to legal restrictions.
Due to the high risk, the studio producing the film refused to approve the stunt, leaving Crane uninsured for the perilous act.
This is when Stallone intervened.
He reportedly took a one million dollar cut from his own salary and gave it to Crane as a token of appreciation for his bravery.
It’s safe to say Crane earned every cent of that money.
There’s no way I would attempt such a stunt, even if I were a stunt professional, but these individuals are undoubtedly a different breed.