Actor Alec Baldwin has been in the news today after charges against him were dropped in the fatal on-set shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the movie “Rust” (CNN, Fox News, The New York Times, Deadline, The Washington Post, NBC News, CBS News). Despite the dropping of charges, special prosecutors have stated that Baldwin is “not absolved” in the shooting and charges may be refiled (Fox News, Deadline). Baldwin himself took to Instagram to thank his wife and attorney following the news (CNN).
Baldwin’s attorneys stated they expected the charges to be dropped (CBS News), and it has been reported that the filming of the movie “Rust” will now shift to Montana (NPR). This incident has prompted discussions about safety protocols on film sets, with the tragedy highlighting the danger associated with on-set firearm use (CNN).
This is not the first time Baldwin has faced controversy, as he has become known for his outspoken political views and outspoken social media presence (The Hollywood Reporter). In 2013, he was fired from his MSNBC program after making homophobic remarks (USA Today), and in November 2021, he faced backlash for defending comedian Dave Chappelle’s controversial remarks on transgender individuals (CNN).
