Johnny Knoxville has explained how the final Jackass movie managed to include unseen footage of former cast member Bam Margera. Margera, who starred in the original MTV show and the first three movies, was reportedly fired from the fourth instalment after failing a drug test.
The star subsequently filed a lawsuit for wrongful termination, claiming he failed the drug test because he was taking prescription Adderall to treat attention deficit disorder. He dropped the suit eight months later and the scenes he filmed for Jackass Forever were cut from the movie.
Though Margera didn't return for the upcoming Jackass: Best and Last, he still makes an appearance via unseen footage from the franchise. Knoxville revealed that the team reached out to their former co-star for his permission to use the footage and he approved, but refused to come back to shoot new material.
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"Through a third party, we invited him to be a part of the film," Knoxville told USA Today. "But he wasn't ready, and we accept that and respect that."
He added: "I have nothing but love for Bam Bam. And I hear he's doing good, and that makes me happy."
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The final instalment revisits the 'Silence of the Lambs' scene from Jackass Forever, which was previously edited to remove Margera's involvement. During the prank, the cast members - including Margera - were locked in a dark room, which they believed contained a loose rattlesnake.
Now, fans will able to see the full segment with the restored footage, as Knoxville hilariously torments Margera, who is deadly afraid of snakes.
Related: Jackass 5 reveals official title as Johnny Knoxville confirms it's the "last" movie
Though Margera's Jackass journey came to an abrupt end, Knoxville shared his "love" his friend earlier this month, after an emotional reunion with Margera's parents April and Phil on the red carpet.
"I got a little choked up," he said (via Men's Journal). "So happy to see them. You know? After all we've been through, and I'm just so happy they're here."
"I cry so much these days, but that's legit emotion," he said, adding: "I'm so happy they're here. I love them. I love Bam and Jess. The whole family."
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Divya is a freelance writer with experience in entertainment and lifestyle news. Described as a "telly addict" since childhood, Divya was able to translate her interests into a BJTC-accredited, Honours degree in Journalism and Media. After working in communications and marketing, Divya joined Digital Spy as a Freelance News Reporter. She has also written for various publications including Metro, Asian World News and TwitCelebGossip; as well as interviews, features and reviews on her own blog. Divya prides herself on her TV, film and showbiz knowledge, always offering (not so) fun facts to her long-suffering friends and family. From soaps to superheroes, Divya is the go-to person for tailored recommendations and up to date information.
