Dylan O’Brien Reflects on On-Set Accident During ‘Maze Runner’ Filming

Actor Dylan O'Brien recently shared insights into the significant safety concerns he faced while filming ‘Maze Runner: The Death Cure,’ which resulted in severe injuries. The ‘Saturday Night‘ star revisited the “life-changing incident” in a recent interview. In 2016, O’Brien was filming the third installment of the ‘Maze Runner’ series when an accident occurred, involving another vehicle hitting him while he wore a harness.

“I’ve approached everything differently,” O’Brien stated, highlighting the incident’s impact on his professional outlook. “It’s very commonplace in the culture for young actors to be controlled, with remarks like, ‘Oh, don’t become difficult. Don’t be a pain in the ass. Or are you complaining, are you being difficult?'”

O’Brien, who initially raised concerns about the film’s safety protocols, emphasized the importance of advocating for one’s safety on set. “Don’t let them manipulate you into thinking that is being difficult,” he said. “I was a 24-year-old kid raising concerns about our approach, and they were not listened to. Then what happened, happened.”

Following his accident, which halted production for several months, the ‘Teen Wolf‘ alum remarked on learning to prioritize his safety without fearing negative labels. “It’s taught me that, at the end of the day, you have your own back, and that’s the most you can rely on,” he said. “I know the person I am, know I’m not difficult, not an asshole. I was trying to protect myself that day.”

The incident and O’Brien’s prolonged recovery were acknowledged by a statement from 20th Century Fox, expressing well wishes for his recovery and stating that the resumption of filming was delayed to allow him ample recovery time.

O’Brien also shared his gratitude for his post-accident film, ‘American Assassin,’ noting its role in helping him regain confidence. “It was a really hard time,” he commented, “but I’m thankful I did [the film]. It was like getting back on my feet.”