Florence Pugh’s Daring Leap: Marvel Star Performs Record-Breaking Stunt in ‘Thunderbolts’

Defying studio concerns, Pugh insisted on executing a high-altitude jump from Malaysia’s Merdeka 118, enhancing the film’s authenticity and promotional impact.

Florence Pugh, renowned for her role as Yelena Belova in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, undertook a remarkable feat during the filming of the upcoming movie Thunderbolts. Demonstrating unwavering determination, Pugh performed a high-risk stunt by leaping from Merdeka 118 in Kuala Lumpur, the world’s second-tallest building, standing at approximately 2,227 feet.

Initially scripted, the daring scene faced potential cancellation due to significant insurance and safety concerns. However, Pugh was resolute in her desire to perform the stunt herself. She persistently communicated with Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, emphasizing the unparalleled promotional value of such a genuine act. Her efforts paid off when the studio acquiesced, allowing her to execute the jump.

The experience was both exhilarating and taxing for Pugh. She described the mental preparation required as akin to possessing a superpower, noting that after the jump, she was so mentally exhausted that she slept for three hours. The stunt not only showcases Pugh’s commitment to authenticity but also aligns with Marvel’s renewed focus on practical effects and real stunts, aiming to revitalize the cinematic experience for audiences.

Thunderbolts, directed by Jake Schreier, features a team of antiheroes, including characters portrayed by Sebastian Stan, David Harbour, Wyatt Russell, Olga Kurylenko, Hannah John-Kamen, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. The film is set to release in theaters on May 2, 2025, marking a significant addition to Phase Five of the Marvel Cinematic Universe…