It's been over a decade since the iconic XXX series starring Vin Diesel first made it to the silver screen. Audiences went gaga over the action-packed thriller helmed by Rob Cohen. It was just the beginning. Those death-defying stunts, Diesel's charisma, and the engaging plot made it the quintessential action franchise.
In 2017, the third installment of the series, XXX: Return Of Xander Cage released in 2017 and starred Vin Diesel and Deepika Padukone in lead roles. Ever since then, XXX fans have been eagerly waiting for the fourth installment. If reports are to be believed, the fourth installment will go on floors soon. Meanwhile, we thought of taking you through some lesser-known facts about the XXX franchise.
Eric Bana Was The First Choice For XXX
Imagine the XXX franchise without Vin Diesel, difficult? Not many know that Vin Diesel wasn't the first choice for the role of Xander Cage. If a report by screenrant.com is to be believed, actor Eric Bana was the first choice by the makers for the role.
Xander Cage's Tattoos Are Fake
Those realistic-looking tattoos on Vin Diesel are fake. A team of skin artists works on every tattoo ahead of the shoot. Reportedly, the tattoos are air-brushed to make them look real. Interestingly, each tattoo speaks of Xander Cage's story.
A Stunt Double Died On The Sets Of XXX
Harry O'Connor, a stuntman who worked as a stunt double for Diesel in XXX died on the sets of the shoot. He was a seasoned stunt performer and skydiver. While performing a stunt, he reportedly collided with a pillar in Prague while paragliding.
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Deepika Padukone Was Nominated For Xander Cage
Deepika Padukone made her Hollywood debut with XXX: Return Of Xander Cage opposite Vin Diesel, Ruby Rose and Samuel L Jackson. For her debut, she was nominated in the best actress category along with Gal Gadot, Nina Dobrev, Ruby Rose, Kaya Scodelario, and Michelle Rodriguez. However, she lost the award to Gal Gadot.
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Diesel Underwent Intense Training Before Shooting For XXX
Vin Diesel performed almost all his stunts for the three installments himself. Due to the nature of stunts in the series, Diesel prepared for three long months before getting into the role. Before doing XXX, Vin Diesel didn't know how to ride a bike. He worked along with moto experts and learned new tricks. He also undertook weapons training with Navy Seals and got training in rock climbing.
Xander Cage is one of the most loved action franchises' and we can’t wait for it to be back with the fourth installment.
Image Courtesy: Vin Diesel/Instagram