Stars Who Went To Extreme Lengths For A Role

Most of the extreme lengths discussed here involve gaining or losing weight, either of which clearly comes with health ramifications. But actor Todd Lawson LaTourrette went much further than a crash diet or fatty binge to secure stardomhe cut off his own hand and told producers he lost it in combat.

Most of the extreme lengths discussed here involve gaining or losing weight, either of which clearly comes with health ramifications. But actor Todd Lawson LaTourrette went much further than a crash diet or fatty binge to secure stardom— he cut off his own hand and told producers he lost it in combat.  

Speaking with KOB4, the New Mexico actor confessed to maiming himself during what he described as "a psychotic episode." LaTourrette said he suffers from bipolar disorder, and wasn't taking his medication prior to amputating and cauterizing his hand and part of his arm. While the gruesome act was part of a manic episode, LaTourrette admitted that, combined with the lie that he was a war veteran, it gave him an edge as an aspiring actor, helping him land roles in films and on shows like Longmire, The Messengers, and Better Call Saul.

"The film industry ... they trusted me that I was exactly who I said I was, that I was a war veteran. I was hired because I lied," LaTourrette told KOB4. As for why he came clean now? LaTourrette said that the lie was "dishonorable" and has been "difficult to live with." He also said he knows his confession will likely destroy his career, but he hopes his candor will encourage others struggling with mental illness to take care of themselves.

"The power is in your hands to take your medication in the morning, or at night," LaTourrette said. "So that, this, this discourse of my life doesn't need to necessarily be yours."

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7r7XCpKCsr5mbwW%2BvzqZmbm5nanykscuemaxllqS%2FpLHDZqOoq5VixKa1xqGrZq%2Bfp7hw

 Share!