Eric Braeden, the iconic actor known for his role as Victor Newman on “The Young and the Restless,” has publicly defended Alec Baldwin amidst the ongoing involuntary manslaughter trial related to the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of “Rust.”
Braeden, drawing from his extensive experience in the entertainment industry since 1962, expressed his outrage at the situation Baldwin faces. He emphasized that throughout his career, which has included numerous roles involving firearms, actors have never been responsible for checking whether guns are loaded on set.
The veteran actor explained the standard protocol he’s observed over his six-decade career: A prop person presents the gun to the actor, often with the assistant director present, to demonstrate that the weapon is unloaded. Braeden firmly stated that holding Baldwin responsible for the tragedy is both unrealistic and unfair.
He pointed out that most actors, especially those not regularly involved in action-heavy productions, wouldn’t typically consider gun safety as their primary concern. Braeden noted that his own awareness of such issues stems from his extensive experience in action-oriented shows like “The Rat Patrol” and “Combat!”
Braeden unequivocally placed the responsibility for the incident on the assistant director and the property person. He stressed that it’s their duty to ensure actors are shown that guns are unloaded and safe to use in scenes. The Emmy-winning actor likened the alternative to playing Russian roulette, emphasizing the potential dangers if proper safety protocols aren’t followed.
While Braeden admitted to only knowing Baldwin peripherally, he defended the “30 Rock” star’s actions. He reasoned that Baldwin, not being accustomed to action films, would have relied on the assurance that the gun was safe when it was handed to him. Braeden questioned why Baldwin would have knowingly taken a loaded weapon, suggesting that such an action would be irrational.
The soap opera legend concluded his statement by reiterating his belief that the responsibility for the tragedy lies solely with the assistant director and the armorer, not with Baldwin.
Braeden’s comments come as Baldwin faces legal consequences for the on-set incident. The actor, who began his career in soap operas before transitioning to primetime television and film, is currently developing a reality series for TLC with his wife Hilaria, focusing on their life with their seven children.
This public support from a respected industry veteran like Braeden adds a new perspective to the ongoing discussion about safety protocols on film sets and the allocation of responsibility in such tragic incidents.
