Alec Baldwin holds prop rifle on Rust set as filming resumes after death

Alec Baldwin has returned to the set of his film Rust for the first time since the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

The actor, 64, had been charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter in relation to the death of the cinematographer on the set in 2021.

Mother-of-one Hutchins died after being shot when the gun Baldwin was holding accidentally discharged.

While criminal charges against Baldwin have since been dropped, Hutchins’ family have vowed to proceed with their civil lawsuit against him.

The actor this week headed to Montano to resume filming on the Western, over a year after the tragedy.

Photos from the set sees Baldwin back in character, in costume and filmed with a horses by his side.

Another snap sees the actor pointing a rifle at another character – though he holds it the wrong way around, so it is pointing at himself.

The set is dusted with snow, with white-topped mountains visible in the distance, while cast and crew trailers are seen in the foreground.

As well as Baldwin and his fellow actor, also accompanied by a horse, crew can be seen holding boom mics and keeping an eye on things.

In February, it was confirmed that the film would be relocating to Montana, with the Yellowstone Film Ranch founders telling the Hollywood Reporter in a statement: ‘The dedication and passion of the entire Rust production team to honor Halyna’s vision has deeply moved us.

‘We’ve learned so much about Halyna as a friend and colleague, the depth of her artistry, and the lasting impact she had on so many.

‘We are honored to play a role in the realization of her vision and to carry forward her inspiring legacy through championing this film.’

Meanwhile, legal representatives for the family said on Friday that Baldwin could not ‘escape from the fact that he had a major role in a tragedy’ as they confirmed the family would continue their civil suit.

US lawyer Gloria Allred said Baldwin ‘should know that we remain committed to fighting and winning for our clients and holding him accountable for pointing a loaded gun at Halyna Hutchins, pulling the trigger, and killing her.’

The statement added: ‘He can run to Montana and pretend that he is just an actor in a wild west movie but, in real life, he cannot escape from the fact that he had a major role in a tragedy which had real-life consequences for Halyna, her mother, father, sister, and co-worker.’

Baldwin’s lawyers told Metro.co.uk in a statement following the news criminal charges had been dropped: ‘We are pleased with the decision to dismiss the case against Alec Baldwin and we encourage a proper investigation into the facts and circumstances of this tragic accident.’

The production’s armourer, Hannah Guttierez-Reed, was also facing involuntary manslaughter charges and had pleaded not guilty.

It is understood these have not been dropped.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : New Rust set unveiled after production resumes as Alec Baldwin’s involuntary manslaughter charges dropped

MORE : Alec Baldwin to still be sued by family of Halyna Hutchins after involuntary manslaughter charges dropped