Alec Baldwin, who was once significantly heavier, has been shedding weight rapidly before returning to the set of Rust, sparking rumors that he may be using self-starvation as a sympathy tactic.
According to sources speaking with The National ENQUIRER, the tensions surrounding the upcoming resumption of the ill-fated film are exacerbating matters, as Baldwin faces involuntary manslaughter charges for the on-set shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
Last month, the 65-year-old actor was seen walking in New York City with what seemed to be a glucose monitor on his upper left arm, appearing slimmer than he has in years. An insider cautions, "He’s had a history of yo-yo dieting, and with his hot temper and unhealthy eating habits, he’s a prime candidate for high blood pressure and potential heart problems. He’s gone cold turkey on carbs and sugar, and shocked his system into losing 20 pounds of fat. But make no mistake, this is by no means a healthy guy!" In 2012, Baldwin disclosed that he was pre-diabetic and needed to make significant lifestyle changes.
A source close to the actor shares, "Alec’s beyond stressed about this shoot. Between his legal woes and the trauma of what happened, he feels sick to his stomach!"
Alec and Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed have both been charged with involuntary manslaughter related to the October 2021 tragedy on the New Mexico set, and both could face up to 18 months in prison. They have entered not guilty pleas.
In the meantime, Alec has received unwavering support from his wife Hilaria, 37, and their children Carmen, 9, Rafael, 7, Leonardo, 6, Romeo, 4, Eduardo, 2, Maria, 2, and six-month-old Ilaria.
Alec Baldwin Appears Bloodied and Condemned in New 'Rust' Set Photos
Alec Baldwin has been photographed in character on the recently resumed set of "Rust," appearing bloodied and on his way to be hanged. Page Six obtained images of the actor on set with a large bloodstain on his shirt before two men carried him towards the gallows.
In the photos, a noose is seen being placed around Baldwin's neck, but it is uncertain whether the actual hanging will be depicted in the Joel Souza-directed film.
The release of these images comes one week after criminal charges against the 65-year-old "Beetlejuice" actor for the 2021 fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins were dropped. Hutchins, 42, was fatally shot on the "Rust" movie set when Baldwin's prop gun discharged a live round, striking her in the chest. Souza was also injured in the shooting but survived, and no charges were filed regarding his injuries.
On April 20, prosecutors Jason Lewis and Kari Morrissey stated that they could not "proceed under the current time constraints and on the facts and evidence turned over by law enforcement in its existing form." They added, "We, therefore, will be dismissing the involuntary manslaughter charges against Mr. Baldwin to conduct further investigation," and noted that charges could be refiled against him.
The decision to drop the charges against the father of seven followed the introduction of new evidence by his legal team, which suggested that the gun used in the shooting had been modified. Throughout the investigation, Baldwin maintained his innocence, claiming he never pulled the gun's trigger and pleading not guilty to the accidental killing in February. The actor initially faced up to five years in prison, later reduced to 18 months behind bars.
After being cleared of the charges, Baldwin expressed his gratitude for the support he received from fans in Montana as filming resumed for the movie. On April 24, he said on Instagram, "Montana is stunning. I'm grateful for all of the support I have received here."
Baldwin also acknowledged his wife, Hilaria Baldwin, for standing by him throughout the entire ordeal. Sharing a photo of them together at a restaurant, he wrote, "I owe everything I have to this woman."