The actor who was notably struck by lightning twice is Jim Caviezel.
Jim Caviezel's Lightning Encounters
Jim Caviezel, renowned for his portrayal of Jesus in Mel Gibson's 2004 film The Passion of the Christ, experienced a series of extraordinary events during the movie's production, including being struck by lightning on two separate occasions. These incidents occurred while filming in Italy, adding a dramatic and often discussed element to the film's challenging production.
- First Strike: During the filming of the Sermon on the Mount scene, Caviezel was reportedly hit by a bolt of lightning. He described seeing a crew member with "fire in his hair" and then feeling a "tremendous hit."
- Second Strike: While the specific circumstances of the second strike are less frequently detailed, it is widely reported that he was struck again. In fact, lightning hit cast and crew on the set of The Passion of the Christ not just once, but twice, with Caviezel being personally affected by both instances.
These highly unusual occurrences left Caviezel shaken but, remarkably, without severe long-term injuries. He later recounted the intense pain and the surreal nature of the events. Beyond the lightning strikes, Caviezel also faced other hardships during filming, including hypothermia, pneumonia, and a dislocated shoulder.
Impact and Legacy
The stories of the lightning strikes became an integral part of the lore surrounding The Passion of the Christ. They contributed to the perception of the film as a project touched by extraordinary circumstances, whether seen as divine intervention or mere coincidence.
The incidents serve as a fascinating anecdote in Hollywood history, highlighting the unexpected perils that can sometimes arise during film production, even for actors embodying iconic roles.
For further information on the film's production and the challenges faced, you can refer to articles and interviews about The Passion of the Christ, such as those found on reputable news sites like ABC News.
