The lingering fallout from the tragic events on the set of Rust continues, and director Ryan Souza is the latest to weigh in with a surprisingly candid assessment. In a recent interview, Souza expressed deep regret over the film itself, stating he'd rather endure a physical punishment – “hit myself with a frying pan” – than subject himself to watching Alec Baldwin’s new reality show, The Baldwins.

Souza’s comments, which have quickly gained traction online, highlight the complex emotions and lingering pain surrounding the production. Rust was halted in 2021 after a prop gun discharged, tragically killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza. The incident led to numerous investigations, lawsuits, and ongoing legal battles involving Baldwin and other members of the film crew.

Beyond the legal complexities, the emotional toll on those involved has been immense. Souza’s sentiment underscores the profound impact the tragedy has had on the creative team. His statement isn't just about disliking a reality show; it’s a raw expression of a desire to avoid anything associated with the events that led to such devastating consequences.

Speaking to The Messenger, Souza elaborated on his feelings, emphasizing a complete lack of connection to the situation. “There’s no relationship,” he said, seemingly referring to his relationship with Baldwin following the incident. He further confirmed he hasn’t watched The Baldwins, a Max series showcasing Baldwin and his family, which has been met with underwhelming viewership and critical reception.

The Baldwins, intended as a lighthearted glimpse into the lives of the prominent acting family, has struggled to gain traction, with many critics finding it lacking in substance and charm. Its dismal ratings and audience scores seem to validate Souza's aversion. The show’s release has been viewed by some as an insensitive move, given the ongoing grief and legal proceedings related to Rust.

Souza’s comments are a stark reminder that the shadow of Rust continues to loom large, impacting not only the legal landscape but also the personal lives and professional reputations of those involved. His candid remarks offer a glimpse into the emotional complexities surrounding the tragedy, and a powerful statement about the desire to move on from a painful chapter in film history. Whether Baldwin's reality show will ultimately be remembered for its entertainment value or its unfortunate timing remains to be seen, but Souza's reaction clearly indicates he won’t be tuning in to find out.