by Hugh Jackman claimed there was “no way now” behavior on the set of the first X-Men movies, but he thinks things are changing for the better in the industry.
The 54-year-old Hollywood star played Wolverine in the first episodes of the superhero series directed by Bryan Singer.
In 2020, Halle Berry told Variety that the director was “not the easiest guy to work with”, claiming she clashed with Singer on the set of the 2014 X-Men movie Days Of Future Past.
In an interview with The Guardian, Australian actor Jackman reflected on his experience shooting the first X-Men movies, the first of which was released in 2000.
“This was my first movie in America, you have to understand; it was very new to me.
“I think it’s fair to say… there are some stories, you know. I think there are some ways to be on set that won’t happen now.
“And I think everything has changed for the better.”
The actor added: “There is much less tolerance for disrespectful, marginalizing, bullying and any oppressive behavior.
“There’s zero tolerance for that now and people will talk, and I think that’s great.”
Filmmaker Singer has also faced sexual harassment allegations in recent years, which he has repeatedly and vehemently denied.
He told Deadline in 2019 that such reports “resurrect allegations from bogus lawsuits filed by a disreputable group willing to lie for money or attention.”
When asked if the allegations tainted how he saw the movies, Jackman said it was a “really complex question” and explained: “There’s a lot of stuff at stake out there.
“I believe the X-Men is a turning point for comic book movies, and I think there’s a lot to be proud of.
“And there are definitely questions that need to be asked, and I think they need to be asked.”
“But I guess I just don’t know how to respond elegantly to that.
“I think it’s a complex situation and I’m proud of what we’ve finally accomplished and what momentum this started.”
Jackman has appeared in a number of X-Men movies and three independent Wolverine movies, the last of which was 2017’s Logan.
After being separated from the role for several years, it has been confirmed that he will be reprising the character in Deadpool 3, starring close friend Ryan Reynolds.
Jackman insists he was “not tormented” by the idea of leaving the character before, but says he agreed “just because he wanted to do it,” adding: “I punch Ryan Reynolds every day.”
Singer’s representatives have been contacted for comment.
