HBO is facing serious backlash after a video surfaced showing a dangerous stunt gone wrong on the set of Game of Thrones season 5, sparking renewed scrutiny over the network’s safety standards. The incident occurred in November 2014, during the filming of the episode titled “Hardhome,” when stunt performer Andy Pilgrim fractured his ankle while executing a complex stunt. The video, obtained by Deadline but not released publicly, shows the moment Pilgrim’s ankle was injured. 
A screenshot of the footage was shared to protect the identity of the on-set source.
The legal papers filed in 2019, which were also obtained by Deadline, reveal that Pilgrim’s injury happened during a stunt involving a 16-foot wooden wall that fell to the ground. The stunt was initially planned to be performed with a crane to safely lower the wall, but the plan was altered before filming began, leaving Pilgrim exposed to the risk of injury. Deadline’s investigation supports Pilgrim’s version of events.
Rowley Irlam, the stunt coordinator who oversaw the sequence, has defended his actions, stating that safety is always a top priority in stunt design. With over 20 years of experience, Irlam emphasized that accidents are rare and that he takes all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of performers. He also pointed out that Pilgrim continued to work with his team for two more seasons after the incident, with no issues arising.
“The unfortunate incident involving Mr. Pilgrim took place 11 years ago, and was resolved between him and the production company. There were no fault findings against me,” Irlam said. HBO has stood by Irlam, praising his expertise and affirming that the safety standards on their productions are a priority. The network remains confident in his ability to manage physically demanding stunts safely.
Four years after the incident, Pilgrim reached a settlement with Fire & Blood Productions for £500,000 ($686,000). However, the network’s troubles didn’t end there. In 2018, another stunt performer, Casey Michaels, suffered a career-ending ankle injury during a stunt overseen by Irlam. Michaels claims that the stunt was also changed from the rehearsal, resulting in her injury. In 2023, Michaels settled her lawsuit, receiving £7 million ($9.3 million) from HBO, far surpassing the £4 million ($5.3 million) she originally sued for.