Tom Hardy has stepped up to support the crew of Guy Ritchie’s new series, demonstrating kindness rare in Hollywood. After the construction company liable for set building, Helix 3D, collapsed, leaving about 50 freelance workers without pay, Hardy intervened to offer assistance.
Filming scenes for the gangster drama, titled ‘The Associate,’ Hardy learned of the situation when the company failed to pay £250,000 (about $310,000) to its workers just before Christmas. Helix 3D’s CEO Brian Dowling had previously informed staff they would not receive their wages until after the New Year, sparking concern and distress among the crew.
Reports indicate the construction firm is set to enter liquidation due to its financial struggles. According to The Times, the employees were left anxious, especially as the holidays approached, fearing they might not be able to afford essentials.
Chris Hudson, the organizing official for the broadcasting union Bectu, expressed outrage at Helix 3D's conduct. He stated, “Our members deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and compensated on time for their work,” emphasizing the unacceptable nature of the situation at such a stressful time of year. Hudson also highlighted how this predicament was affecting the workers' mental health as they faced financial uncertainties.
Upon learning of the crew's plight, Hardy decided to help. A source close to him revealed, “He offered to [pay], but the production and Paramount have sorted the payment.” Meanwhile, Paramount, also embroiled in the situation, shared its outrage over how the workers had been treated and pledged to resolve the payment issue swiftly.
The production, featuring Hardy alongside acclaimed actors Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan, has its own challenges. Besides the financial turmoil resulting from Helix 3D's downfall, the show’s London set was targeted by thieves not once, but twice, resulting in the loss of $1.3 million worth of camera equipment.
Despite these setbacks, 'The Associate' aims to span across global narratives involving rival families and their fiercely loyal fixers. Hardy stars as Harry Da Souza, tasked with protecting one of the two rival families at the center of the story. The show marks Hardy and Ritchie's second project together, following their collaboration on the 2008 film ‘RocknRolla.’
Adding to the intrigue, Hardy has also taken on the role of executive producer alongside Ritchie and others involved. The gripping plotlines and captivating performances promise to keep audiences engaged as they await the series’ release on Paramount+.
With the holiday season highlighting the importance of community and support, Hardy's actions have shone as a beacon of hope for those struggling. His willingness to cover crew wages exemplifies how individuals, even those with celebrity status, can make significant impacts on the lives of everyday people. The quick reaction from Paramount to rectify the situation also showcases the lesser-known but equally valuable side of the entertainment industry—where loyalty and responsibility sometimes take precedence over profit.
Fans of Ritchie’s work can look forward to this anticipated series, hoping the production can bounce back from these adversities. Hardy's involvement not only solidifies his standing as not just an actor, but also as someone invested deeply in the livelihood of those he works with.
