Emma Watson Walked Off ‘This Is The End’ Set After Refusing to Film A Controversial Scene

Seth Rogen even admits she made the right call!

Sophia

• Published in Film & TV
• September 27, 2024

Emma Watson is known for her thoughtful career choices and dedication to roles that align with her values, so it’s no surprise that she took a stand on the set of “This Is The End.” The 2013 apocalyptic comedy, directed by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, pushed boundaries with its outrageous humor and wild antics.

The film, which features Hollywood stars like James Franco, Jonah Hill, and Rogen himself playing exaggerated versions of themselves, is filled with crude jokes, unexpected cameos, and scenes that often toe the line of good taste.

However, it was a particularly controversial scene that pushed Watson to her breaking point, leading her to walk off the set—an action that Rogen later supported as the right decision.

For those unfamiliar, “This Is The End” is a comedic take on the apocalypse set against the backdrop of a celebrity-filled party gone wrong. When the end of the world hits, the actors find themselves trapped in James Franco’s house, trying to survive while navigating their heightened personas.

The movie’s appeal lies in its self-aware humor and willingness to poke fun at its stars, all of whom signed up to be roasted on screen. While the film’s wild nature earned it a cult following and over $125 million at the box office, it wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea—especially for Watson, who took issue with one particularly disturbing scene involving Channing Tatum and a gimp suit.

Watson Takes a Stand Against Uncomfortable Humor

During filming, Watson reportedly refused to participate in a scene involving Tatum in a gimp mask and a now-cannibalistic Danny McBride leading him on a chain. The details of how Watson’s character would have been involved in the scene are unclear, but the imagery and tone were enough to make her uncomfortable.

In an industry where actors often feel pressured to go along with the creative choices made by directors, Watson’s decision to walk away from the scene was a powerful statement. Instead of bending to the pressure, she chose to prioritize her comfort and principles, a move that Rogen later defended.

In a 2021 interview with GQ, Rogen reflected on Watson’s decision, saying, “I don’t look back on that and think, ‘How dare she do that?’ You know? Sometimes when you read something, it doesn’t seem the same when it comes to life.”

He emphasized that Watson’s departure wasn’t a dramatic fallout; she even returned the next day to say goodbye and continued to help promote the film. Rogen admitted, “She was probably right. It was probably funnier the way we ended up doing it.”

The Wild Ride of “This Is The End” and Its Celebrity Cameos

Despite Watson’s departure, the film retained its chaotic charm, thanks to its ensemble cast and outrageous cameos. Actors like Michael Cera, Rihanna, and even the Backstreet Boys all made memorable appearances, contributing to the film’s unpredictable and over-the-top atmosphere.

The film’s boundary-pushing humor made it a unique entry in the comedy genre, and Watson’s decision to opt out of a scene didn’t detract from its overall impact. Rogen and Goldberg’s willingness to embrace the unexpected paid off, though it’s clear that not everyone was comfortable with every direction the film took.

Watson’s refusal to participate in the controversial scene highlights the often unseen battles actors face behind the scenes. It’s a reminder that even in the world of comedy, there are lines that some performers aren’t willing to cross—and that’s okay.

For Watson, walking away from the scene was less about making a statement against the film and more about staying true to her own boundaries. In the end, her decision was respected, and the film went on to find success without compromising her values.

Sophia