Stuntman Left Brain Damaged After Horror Accident on Hollywood Film Set
It was supposed to be just another high-energy action scene for The Hangover Part II, the most anticipated sequel of the year, but behind the scenes, a nightmare was unfolding. Australian stuntman Scott Mlan was fighting for his life after a horrific accident on set. The accident, which occurred during a carefully choreographed stunt in Bangkok, left Scott with critical brain injuries, forever changing his life and the lives of those closest to him.
The stunt had been designed to look thrilling on-screen, but human error caused the timing to go awry. Scott, in the back of a car, collided with a truck that was out of position. The impact was severe, with Scott’s skull visibly damaged, leaving his partner, Rylien Chapman, fearing for his life. “I was 100% certain that was the last time I was going to see him alive,” she recalls.
Rylien rushed to the hospital, hoping for the best, but the doctors were unsure if Scott would survive. His peak physical condition, however, gave them hope. He had never smoked, drank, or used drugs, and that helped give the medical team the chance they needed. After being put into a coma and undergoing surgery, Scott’s recovery began, though it would be a long and difficult journey.
Just a month after the accident, Scott was transferred to a rehabilitation center in Sydney. Slowly, he began to regain his ability to speak and walk. Though the road to recovery was filled with small victories, the impact of the injury would be long-lasting. He continues to make progress, and his partner Rylien remains by his side, helping him with each new milestone.
Scott may never perform the acrobatic stunts that once defined his career, but he remains determined to return to the film industry as a stunt coordinator. He holds no grudges against anyone involved, instead choosing to focus on healing and positivity. As of now, the film’s producers, Warner Brothers, are covering his medical expenses, and the Hangover actors have personally contributed to his care.
Despite the long road ahead, Scott’s recovery offers a glimmer of hope, not just for him, but for everyone who has supported him along the way.