TV writers are used to solving unexpected problems, and actor injuries can create some of the biggest challenges. Rather than shutting down production, many shows found creative ways to explain casts, crutches, broken bones, and other injuries by making them part of the story itself. Here are some of the best-known examples.
Matthew Perry In Friends
During season four, Matthew Perry was involved in a jet ski accident that injured his shoulder.
The injury was written into the show by having Chandler explain that he fell into a filing cabinet while trying to avoid exercising at the gym.
Jennifer Aniston In Friends
Jennifer Aniston broke a toe shortly before filming began for season ten.
Writers incorporated the injury into several episodes, with Rachel frequently seen wearing bandages and special footwear that became part of the character’s appearance.
David Schwimmer In Friends
David Schwimmer injured his hand before filming season five.
The show explained Ross’s cast by having the character suffer an off-screen injury while attempting to help others during an awkward situation.
Zooey Deschanel In New Girl
Zooey Deschanel broke her hand in a car accident before filming part of season four.
Rather than hiding the injury completely, writers had Jess hurt herself during a fall, giving the character a reason to wear a cast.
Harrison Ford In Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
Harrison Ford injured his back during filming and eventually underwent surgery.
Several action scenes were rewritten or reassigned to other characters while the production worked around his recovery.
John Ritter In Three’s Company
John Ritter frequently performed his own physical comedy and occasionally sustained injuries while filming.
Certain episodes incorporated visible injuries and altered stunts so the story could continue without lengthy delays.
Nathan Fillion In Castle
Nathan Fillion injured his knee during production.
The writers adjusted storylines and filming setups to explain periods where Castle was less physically active than usual.
Rainn Wilson In The Office
After injuring his foot, Rainn Wilson’s mobility became more limited during filming.
The series incorporated the issue into Dwight’s activities and staging, helping conceal the injury in plain sight.
Jaleel White In Family Matters
Jaleel White suffered an ankle injury while working on the show.
The writers responded by incorporating the injury into Steve Urkel’s storyline rather than constantly trying to hide it from viewers.
Lucille Ball In Here’s Lucy
Lucille Ball broke her leg during the show’s run.
Writers quickly adjusted the script so Lucy Ricardo’s successor character would also require a cast, allowing production to continue.
Jeremy Renner In Mayor of Kingstown
Following serious injuries from his snowplow accident, production on later episodes and seasons was adapted around Renner’s recovery.
His physical condition was reflected in the character’s appearance and limitations, helping the show accommodate his return.
When Real Injuries Become Plot Points
Sometimes the easiest way to deal with an actor’s injury is to stop hiding it altogether. Whether it was a broken hand, an injured shoulder, or a leg cast, these productions found creative ways to turn real-life accidents into believable parts of the story.
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