Keanu Reeves reveals the physical toll of his action-packed John Wick role, including moments where he threw up from the intensity of stunts.
At a Glance
- Reeves disclosed throwing up during intense John Wick stunts
- The actor maintains a rigorous training regimen for his action roles
- Co-star Ian McShane praised Reeves’ dedication to pushing his limits
- The John Wick franchise has earned over $1 billion globally
- Reeves views the physical challenges as part of what makes the role “good”
Keanu Reeves Opens Up About Stunt Work Challenges
Keanu Reeves, the face of the wildly successful John Wick franchise, recently shared insights into the physical demands of his action-packed role. During a 10th-anniversary screening of the first John Wick film in Los Angeles, Reeves spoke candidly about the toll that performing his own stunts takes on his body.
The actor, known for his commitment to authenticity in action scenes, revealed that the intensity of some stunts led to unexpected physical reactions.
“I had so many wonderful teachers and guidance and worked with so many talented actors, actresses and stunt people in the sense of it’s such a dance and collaboration and cooperation. So there’s a couple of times where you throw up or puke or whatever, but that’s what makes it good!” Reeves said.
Reeves admitted during a chat to celebrate the original 'John Wick''s 10th anniversary that some of the movie's intricate stunt choreography made him ill. https://t.co/tgS9MRdm6V
— Men's Journal (@MensJournal) November 4, 2024
Dedication to the Craft
Reeves’ commitment to his craft has not gone unnoticed by his co-stars. Ian McShane, who also appeared at the anniversary screening, praised Reeves’ work ethic and willingness to go above and beyond.
“He pushes the envelope all the time. So when your leading actor says, ‘We’d like do another one,’ and it’s raining for the seventh day in a row outside … and you’re standing there, whatever. And you go, ‘Well, Keanu’s doing it. Here we are. Here we go,'” McShane remarked.
The actor’s dedication extends beyond the set. Reeves maintains a rigorous training regimen to stay in top physical shape for his roles. His workout routine includes judo, jiu-jitsu, and weapons manipulation, all of which contribute to the authenticity of his on-screen performances.
As Reeves continues to take on physically demanding roles, he acknowledges the impact of aging on his performances.
“[It] starts with training before the training. I’m not quite [in the aging out stage] yet. [But this franchise] got me closer,” Reeves admitted. Despite feeling the effects of age, the actor expressed his enduring love for the John Wick role and the world it inhabits.
The John Wick franchise, which began in 2014, has released four installments to date, with the latest hitting theaters in March 2023. The series has been a global phenomenon, collectively earning over $1 billion at the box office. Reeves’ portrayal of the titular character has been central to the franchise’s success, with audiences and critics alike praising his physical performances and dedication to the role.
