Gillian Anderson has opened up about a startling behind-the-scenes incident during filming of the season 3 X-Files episode, “War of the Coprophages,” disclosing that not one but two unscripted accidents occurred on set. The revelation came during her recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, where her account brought new attention to a classic moment in the beloved sci-fi franchise and spotlighted the real-life risks behind the drama.
Unexpected Danger on the X-Files Set
The topic of accidents surfaced when Jimmy Kimmel asked Anderson whether a car crash that appears behind her in the episode was planned or an actual mishap.
“Now, true or false: That was an actual accident that happened behind you?”
host Jimmy Kimmel asked during their interview. Anderson confirmed, “Yeah, it was.” When prodded further about who was involved, she clarified,
“Yeah, I think it was the stuntmen.”
This particular episode, inspired by H. G. Wells’ “The War of the Worlds,” follows Scully and Fox Mulder, portrayed by David Duchovny, as they investigate mysterious cockroach attacks in a small town. The unscripted accident added genuine intensity to a scene already filled with tension and uncertainty, with Anderson’s character, Scully, maintaining composure in the moment despite the unexpected danger unfolding nearby.
On-Set Reactions and Anderson’s Perspective
Reflecting on her reaction to the incident years later, Anderson expressed how her response would likely change if a similar event occurred today.
“I mean, these days, I probably would’ve said, ‘Oh my God, are you kidding me?’”
said Gillian Anderson, Emmy winner. She continued,
“But I just went on with it.”
The professionalism displayed at the moment allowed production to continue seamlessly, capturing a shot that ultimately added depth to the scene.
Another Collision Captured on Camera
During the same episode, another accident occurred when a frantic man collided with Anderson’s character as she entered a convenience store. Jimmy Kimmel asked,
“That guy bumping into you, was that an accident or was that part of the deal?”
She replied,
“I think that was an accident.”
The series of back-to-back mishaps, both genuine, surprised even seasoned TV host Kimmel, who joked,
“It’s an X-File in and of itself!”
Kimmel wondered if episode director Kim Manners was particularly pleased that Anderson chose to remain in character and keep filming. Anderson admitted,
“That I can’t remember, but I’m sure, because they got to keep it. And it adds tension to the scene, right?”
This decision preserved powerful, authentic moments that contributed to the atmosphere of uncertainty throughout the episode.
The Lasting Influence and Future of the X-Files
The X-Files, which first aired on Fox in 1993, became an influential franchise, running for nine seasons and expanding into spinoffs and two feature films. The show was later revived, with additional seasons airing from 2016 to 2018. Its legacy continues to intrigue audiences as new developments unfold.
Director Ryan Coogler, known for “Sinners” and “Black Panther,” has announced that he is working on a reboot of the iconic series. Anderson shared on ITV1’s This Morning in May that she has already connected with Coogler about the project.
“I spoke to [Coogler], and what I said was, ‘If anyone were to do it, I think you are the perfect person, and best of luck,’”
Gillian Anderson said. She encouraged him, “Call me.”
As stories behind the scenes come to light, like the real accidents discussed by Gillian Anderson, fans gain fresh appreciation for the risks and dedication involved in bringing the mysterious world of the X-Files to life. With new projects on the horizon and interest in the franchise as strong as ever, the unpredictable and often intense spirit of the original series continues to shape its enduring legacy.
