Fast & Furious 7 recently wrapped up filming, cutting short a critical race scene because staff didn’t want another crash after the one that killed Paul Walker last year.
Although Walker crashed off-set, the crash has had a big impact on the staff of the series.
The big race scene was prepped for several days, and producers brought in “authentic street races.” The scene was to have a yellow Chevelle race another car and dramatically pop a wheelie, similar to a scene in the original Fast & Furious movie.
Someone at the track, Willow Springs International Freeway near Palmdale, told TMZ that a person from the production told some staffers that the reason for the cut was a lack of proper insurance.
But word circulating among staff is that Walker’s accident has brought extreme caution to the filming of FF7 and subsequent movies in the franchise. “They believe a second crash -- even though Paul’s was not film-related -- could jeopardize the entire franchise.”
After filming ended the cast and crew had a big wrap party. Walker’s brothers Cody and Caleb, who helped finish his scenes, were there with Tyrese Gibson and other stars.
One of the main cast members might not be back for another film.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (Marshall Luke Hobbs) was non-committal when asked if he'll be back for Fast & Furious 8.
“I don’t know,” he said, reported QMI Agency.
At least several more films are expected to make in the franchise, which is only picking up steam as more movies are made.
“I was very happy with the way (Fast & Furious 7) was completed. I think Paul would have wanted that. In fact, I know Paul would have wanted that. When something like that happens, it’s a harsh reminder of how fortunate we are, and it makes you hug your loved ones harder,” he said.
“I think this installment is going to be a special one – for a lot of reasons, but especially in the wake of Paul’s death. So, the reason I say, ‘I don’t know,’ is because you don’t want to think too far into the future. But especially, I think because this is the last one with Paul, it would be a good way to go out. It feels good.”
