Dylan O'Brien found fame through his role as Stiles Stillinski on MTV's hit series "Teen Wolf" which premiered in 2011. Three years later fans were able to get more of their favorite human sidekick when he appeared as the leading man in "The Maze Runner" films. This was a big step for the young actor as the film series centered around teenagers trying to survive a dystopian society. That concept was extremely popular at the time with film franchises like "The Hunger Games" and "Divergent" setting the pace for young adult films. Unfortunately, while on the set of the last film in the three-part series, O'Brien was severely injured in a stunt gone wrong.
This according to a report by Vulture.
How bad was it?
O'Brien received a concussion, facial fracture, and brain trauma among other injuries. While the actor took time away from the spotlight to heal physically, his psychological trauma proved to be far more difficult a recovery. The actor became filled with anxiety at the thought of returning to set and he wasn't sure if he wanted to continue his acting career. However, O'Brien needed to finish up the role that made him question everything. While the decision to return to set was a hard one, he knew it would harm him more in the long run if he didn't.
What's next for O'Brien?
The 26-year-old is ready to move forward with his life and fortunately, he is able to move on from his former roles.
Having wrapped up the sixth and final season of "Teen Wolf" and the final installment of "The Maze Runner" the actor was able to finish his newest film. Cast as Mitch Rapp, a CIA black op recruit, the "American Assassin" role is nothing like O'Brien has ever done before. According to reporter Kyle Buchanan, O'Brien feels as though his accident helped him connect to the character in a way he never thought possible.
The accident marks the end of a chapter for O'Brien. Leaving behind the roles that make sixteen-year-old girls everywhere swoon, he is finally moving onto roles that will allow him the opportunity for recognition of his undeniable skill set as an actor.
"American Assassin" was released mid-September and is still available for viewing in theaters.
While O'Brien's performance was nothing short of spectacular the film itself has only received a 33 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes so far. Critics are calling it generic and cliche. Though this role may not have been his best, O'Brien's career, as well as his health, seem to be doing just fine.
