The dismissal of Jean-Claude Van Damme from the iconic film “Predator” in 1987 has long been a fascinating tale in Hollywood’s science fiction history.
The reasons behind his firing remained shrouded in mystery for decades until a resolution emerged in 2019.
Actor Bill Duke has recently come forward to support Van Damme’s side of the story once again.
Van Damme expressed discontent with the ‘Predator’ costume, citing it as ‘disgusting’ due to breathing difficulties and anxiety it induced.
Recalling the ordeal, he highlighted the discomfort of being encased in the boiling hot cast for prolonged periods during filming.
The intricate construction of the costume confined Van Damme’s movements and impeded his ability to breathe freely, resulting in a high risk of dehydration and safety concerns.
Subsequently, the actor began to faint from the adverse effects of the outfit and the filming environment combined.
Bill Duke affirmed Van Damme’s narrative on the Murder Master Music Show, recounting how the actor fainted twice due to dehydration, leading to his eventual termination from the project by the producer.
Despite Van Damme’s efforts to persevere, another fainting incident two weeks later sealed his departure from the film.
Van Damme’s physical stature and health issues posed significant challenges during the filming of ‘Predator,’ prompting the decision to enlist Kevin Peter Hall, standing at an imposing 7’2″, as his replacement.
Hall, fresh from portraying a sasquatch in a previous film, seamlessly took over the role and successfully completed the project without complications.
Although Van Damme’s tenure in ‘Predator’ was short-lived, the intriguing backstory surrounding his exit continues to captivate Hollywood enthusiasts.
His subsequent success in action films, notably starring in ‘Bloodsport’ in 1988 and various other action-packed movies throughout the 90s, solidified his status as an enduring figure in the action genre.
