Fox probes claims that Maze Runner cast stole artifacts
Dylan O’Brien said performers took items during filming of science fiction movie at private ranch in New Mexico
ALBUQUERQUE, N. M. — Representatives from 20th Century Fox are trying to determine if actors took American Indian artifacts while filming Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials at a private New Mexico ranch.
Diamond Tail Ranch manager Roch Hart told The Associated Press that following comments by the film’s star, Dylan O’Brien, the studio is investigating claims the cast took artifacts and will seek to return any stolen items. Chris Petrikin, a spokesman for 20th Century Fox, confirmed Tuesday that the studio was looking into the matter.
“Twentieth Century Fox and The Scorch Trials production team take these issues very seriously and we are conducting a thorough investigation into the matter,” Petrikin said in a statement. “If any artifacts were mishandled or removed from the location, we will do everything to ensure they are restored.”
During an appearance on Live With Kelly and Michael last month, O’Brien said cast members took artifacts from the private ranch north of Albuquerque, despite warnings not to do so.
“They gave us this big speech when we got there to shoot, and they said, ‘Don’t take anything. Respect the grounds,’ ” O’Brien said. “They were very strict about littering and don’t take any artifacts like rocks, skulls ... anything like that. And everyone just takes stuff, you know, obviously.”
O’Brien, 24, didn’t say what was taken, but he said later illnesses were blamed on the removed artifacts. O’Brien said he also got sick, but it was unclear if he also admitted stealing any items.
A representative for O’Brien did not return an email from The Associated Press.