Actor Quits Madden Film Amid On-Set Controversy

A supporting actor quit the biopic 'Madden,' starring Nicolas Cage and Christian Bale, two weeks into production, citing discomfort over director David O. Russell's alleged use of the N-word and a planned nude locker room scene. Multiple cast and crew claim Russell used the slur during a monologue rehearsal, leading to a walkout, but Amazon Studios asserts it was the actor's idea to include the word, which was ultimately not filmed, and that Russell did not say the word on camera. The actor also objected to the nude scene, despite prior notice and the presence of an intimacy coordinator. Studio insiders report ongoing discussions with the actor about a possible return. The set is described as tense, with conflicts fueled by the method acting styles of Cage and Bale, though neither has been accused of improper conduct. The controversy is in line with Russell's history of challenging set dynamics.