MCU’s Dr. Stephen Strange, Benedict Cumberbatch, wasn’t the megastar back that he is today in the 2000s. Despite studying drama in multiple prestigious schools, the Oscar-winning actor found himself working in small roles. Cumberbatch once narrated how he managed to escape after being kidnapped.
The English actor once feared for his life after some gunmen hijacked him during the filming of a BBC adaptation of the novels by William Golding, and it all started with a carjacking. The actor, who was recently left shaken by an intruder break-in, faced a scarier situation whilst his kidnapping in 2005.
Benedict Cumberbatch Was Thrown Into The Car’s Trunk After A Carjacking Incident
Back in 2005, Benedict Cumberbatch was working on the miniseries To the Ends of the Earth, a BBC adaptation of the novels by William Golding. The Power of the Dog actor, who felt elated to play the role of Edmund Talbot, faced a life-threatening situation while returning to the set. The actor wasn’t as famous as he is today.
Cumberbatch narrated his kidnapping story to People Magazine:
“They were like: ‘Look down! Look down! Put your hands on your heads! Look at the floor! “I was scared, really scared.”
Benedict Cumberbatch was accompanied by his friend on the way back to the To the Ends of the Earth set when a tire blew out, leaving the group stranded. Before the two-time Oscar nominee could change the tire, he was approached by a group of gunmen and was thrown into the trunk of the car.
Recently, a local chef broke into Cumberbatch’s London home, hurling threats when the whole family was inside. He was carrying a knife, but luckily police intervention made sure he was caught before anything could go wrong.
Benedict Cumberbatch’s Near-Death Experience Changed His Views On Life
Life isn’t a movie and even actors like Cumberbatch, aren’t immune to life-threatening situations, something they manage to portray flawlessly on the big screen. Thankfully, the Atonement actor was able to escape the kidnapping with the help of a stranger.
It was reported that the young actor “cried with gratitude,” after the stranger saved his life. Benedict Cumberbatch admitted to being influenced by his near-death experiences and famously said in a later interview, “It really, really enriches your values in life.” The actor’s views on life changed after his kidnapping.
After this, the actor embarked on a success-driven journey. He holds various accolades, such as winning an Oscar nomination for The Imitation Game (2014); receiving a Prime Time Emmy Award for Sherlock (2010-2017); and another Oscar nomination for the 2021 hit, The Power of the Dog.
To the Ends of the Earth can be rented or purchased on Google Play.
Also Read: MCU’s Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr Was Jealous of His Avengers: Endgame Co-star Benedict Cumberbatch
Source: Showbiz CheatSheet
