Jason Statham has built a reputation on high-speed chases, brutal fight scenes, and daring stunts. Even after decades in action films, he admits he still likes to push himself “a little bit further than the last time.”
Speaking to News at the premiere of his new film Shelter, Statham said doing his own stunts sometimes comes with a cost.
“There have been a lot of stunts where I went too far,” he admits. “When you get hurt, you often think, ‘Why did I do that?
Despite the risks, the 58-year-old actor, who has two young children with model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, shows little interest in slowing down. He follows an “in for a penny, in for a pound” approach to action.
Reflecting on age, he adds, “I’m not that old. You’re less bouncy than at 25, but I’m still going.” His secret to staying fit? “Lots of physio.”
Director Ric Waugh agrees. “I don’t like using visual effects that feel fake,” he explains. “Everything is real, authentic, and grounded. That’s what grips audiences emotionally.”
One of the toughest sequences was an open-sea rescue. Statham described it as physically punishing. “Swimming with a jacket and size 10 boots is not easy,” he notes.
Over the years, nerves have become a thing of the past. “There’s nothing to be nervous about anymore. I’ve done this for many years,” he says. The few nerves he feels now come from wanting to do a good job and get it right.
“I owe Ritchie a lot; he started my career, so I’m excited to work with him again,” Statham adds, while keeping project details under wraps.
