Benedict Cumberbatch Opens Up About Near-Death Experience and Its Impact on His Life
Renowned English actor Benedict Cumberbatch is no stranger to portraying superheroes in perilous situations on screen. However, it has now come to light that he faced a real-life life-threatening ordeal in the past.
During an interview with Variety, Cumberbatch shared a harrowing incident that took place in 2004 while filming the BBC miniseries ‘To the Ends of the Earth’ in South Africa. The actor recounted how he and his friends were robbed and kidnapped by six men after their tire blew out on the side of the road. They were restrained and made to sit in a manner reminiscent of execution.
Reflecting on the traumatic event, Cumberbatch revealed, “It gave me a sense of time, but not necessarily a good one. I still struggle with the impatience I felt from living a less typical life.”
The experience had a profound impact on Cumberbatch, leading him to seek out more adrenaline-pumping activities to combat the lingering effects of fear and impatience.
“The near-death stuff turbo-fueled all that. I realised that I could die at any time. I took a lot of risks, including jumping out of aeroplanes,” Cumberbatch shared, highlighting his newfound perspective on life and mortality.
With a wife and three sons now in his life, Cumberbatch acknowledged how his responsibilities have shifted his priorities and outlook on life. “Looking over the edge has helped me become at ease with what’s underneath. And I’ve come to terms with the fact that that is the conclusion of our narrative,” he added.
During the interview, Cumberbatch also touched upon his acting craft and shared insights into his approach to emotional scenes. Drawing inspiration from his Marvel Cinematic Universe co-star Tom Holland, he emphasized the importance of authenticity and personal connection in portraying emotions on screen.
“To react to the present, you must truly place your mind somewhere. And it can involve using your imagination or your life narrative as inspiration,” Cumberbatch explained, underscoring the value of life experiences in enriching one’s acting abilities.
As a seasoned actor at 48, Cumberbatch expressed gratitude for the highs and lows he has experienced, stating, “I have gone through some of the worst and some of the best; I have lost, I have suffered.” His journey, both on and off-screen, continues to shape his perspective and approach to his craft.
