Florence Pugh Takes Thrilling Leap in Marvel’s ‘Thunderbolts’

Los Angeles, California — Florence Pugh, known for her daring roles, took on a remarkable stunt during the making of Marvel‘s latest movie, ‘Thunderbolts.’ Last summer, at San Diego Comic-Con, Pugh shared that she jumped from the Merdeka, the second tallest building in the world, a 118-story skyscraper in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

This adrenaline-pumping feat might unsettle most grandparents, but not Pugh’s, affectionately known as ‘Granzo Pat.’ At the London premiere of ‘Thunderbolts,’ Pugh said her grandmother expressed her delight about the film, although they skipped discussing the jump. ‘She said, “Brilliant, darling. Very thrilling,”’ Pugh recounted. ‘I didn’t ask her what she thought of the jump; she’s someone that does some pretty mad stuff.’

Pugh’s leap not only showcased her bravery but also added ‘Guinness World Record holder’ to her resume. However, her motivation was not personal glory. ‘I wanted to do that stunt because I knew that it meant that we all got to do it. That day in Malaysia was an achievement for all of us,’ she stated, referring to her collaboration with long-time Marvel stunt coordinator Heidi Moneymaker and base jumper Katie Hansen. ‘What an impressive and powerful way to start a movie.’

‘Thunderbolts,’ directed by Jake Schreier, is a different kind of Marvel film that highlights the darker sides of a team of antiheroes, including Pugh’s character, former Black Widow agent Yelena Belova. The film aims to connect with audiences by addressing themes of grief and connection.

Pugh emphasized the significance of the movie’s message about support and empathy. ‘This will help a lot of people. We need to open up, we need to connect,’ she said, reflecting her character’s complexity. She pointed out that Yelena often seeks to help others, even in her own struggles. ‘She’s always trying to help the person that maybe isn’t as strong.’

During the film’s development, Pugh and co-star David Harbour pushed for deeper character interactions that reflect their histories and emotions. ‘Grief sometimes does that. They are both flawed, and they need a moment to just like, shout at each other and tell each other they love each other,’ she explained.

And while Pugh acknowledges the incredible talent surrounding her, she expressed hope that audiences will see her character’s vulnerability and warmth. ‘I hope that she feels fulfilled, like she has purpose,’ Pugh said, reflecting on her character’s journey in the film.