Celebs Who Had Disgusting On-Set Habits: What Co-Stars Refused to Tolerate

Being a celebrity doesn’t always mean acting like one. While many stars are professional, polite, and respectful behind the scenes, some have gained a reputation for downright disgusting on-set behavior. Whether it’s poor hygiene, bad tempers, or just bizarre habits that made cast and crew squirm, these stars caused waves — and not the good kind.

Here’s a list of celebrities whose nasty on-set habits shocked co-stars, angered directors, and sometimes nearly derailed entire productions.

1. Russell Crowe – Spitting, Yelling, and Constant Tension

Known for his intense acting style, Crowe has also gained a reputation for being aggressive on set. According to reports, he frequently yelled at crew members and co-stars — and was even accused of spitting during arguments. Yikes.

2. Christian Bale – Explosive Meltdowns

He’s undeniably talented, but Bale’s infamous on-set meltdown during the filming of Terminator Salvation became legendary. He unleashed a profanity-filled tirade on a crew member for walking on set during a scene. The audio leaked, and the public got a taste of what working with him could be like.

3. Jennifer Lopez – Refused to Speak to Background Actors

J.Lo has been accused of being a diva on multiple sets. One particularly outrageous rumor claimed she demanded extras not to look at or speak to her. Several background actors confirmed they were told to “act invisible” around the singer-actress.

4. Tom Hardy – Clashes and Isolation

On the set of Mad Max: Fury Road, Hardy was reportedly difficult to work with, often clashing with co-star Charlize Theron and disappearing between takes. Crew members said his brooding, aggressive energy made the set “hostile.”

5. Charlie Sheen – Wild, Dangerous Behavior

While filming Two and a Half Men, Sheen’s off-camera behavior — including substance abuse and erratic moods — caused major disruptions. His lifestyle affected shooting schedules and put the entire crew on edge, until he was eventually fired from the show.

6. Shia LaBeouf – Method Acting Gone Too Far

LaBeouf took method acting to extremes on films like Fury, where he allegedly refused to shower for weeks, pulled out his own tooth, and cut his face to “stay in character.” Co-stars were reportedly horrified and couldn’t stand the smell.

7. Lindsay Lohan – Chronic Tardiness & Unpredictability

Lohan developed a reputation for being wildly unreliable. During filming of The Canyons, she was reportedly late to set by hours, refused to do scenes, and had poor hygiene. Directors claimed she would sweat through costumes and not change clothes for days.

8. Marlon Brando – Refused to Learn Lines

By the 1990s, the once-revered Brando became nearly impossible to work with. On the set of The Island of Dr. Moreau, he refused to learn his lines and even made bizarre demands — like painting his face white or bringing a dwarf to every scene.

9. Julia Roberts – Called ‘Nasty’ on the Set of Hook

While she’s America’s sweetheart to fans, rumors swirled that Julia was so unpleasant during the filming of Hook that she was nicknamed “TinkerHell” by the crew. Complaints included mood swings, tantrums, and a dismissive attitude.

10. Chevy Chase – Verbally Abusive & Alienating

Chase’s time on Community ended in chaos, with reports of him being racially insensitive and verbally abusive. Co-stars described him as unpredictable and impossible to work with, with even creator Dan Harmon calling him out publicly.

11. Bruce Willis – Emotionally Cold and Unapproachable

Kevin Smith once described working with Willis on Cop Out as “soul-crushing.” Crew said Willis was cold, refused to engage with anyone, and often delayed production by refusing to follow direction or show emotion.

12. Val Kilmer – Feuds with Everyone

Kilmer’s on-set behavior became so difficult that he earned a reputation across Hollywood. On The Island of Dr. Moreau, he clashed with director John Frankenheimer and other actors. Crew members allegedly threatened to walk off the set daily.

13. Gwyneth Paltrow – Demanding and Distant

While not gross in the physical sense, Paltrow’s aloof, reportedly “holier-than-thou” attitude has rubbed many the wrong way. On Marvel sets, she didn’t remember actors she had scenes with and made unusual demands regarding her trailers and food.

14. Edward Norton – Took Over Directing

Norton is known for rewriting scripts without approval and essentially taking over films. On The Incredible Hulk, he reportedly clashed with producers and refused to promote the film because he was unhappy with the final cut.

15. James Franco – Accusations of Creepy Behavior

Multiple co-stars and former students at his acting school accused Franco of inappropriate and unprofessional behavior. On sets, he reportedly flirted aggressively and created discomfort among younger actresses.

Final Thoughts: Talent Doesn’t Excuse Toxicity

Working on a film or TV set is a collaborative effort. While some stars bring magic to the screen, their behind-the-scenes behavior can be difficult — or downright repulsive. Hygiene, respect, and professionalism should be the bare minimum.

As audiences demand accountability and better treatment of cast and crew, the days of tolerating disgusting behavior — no matter how big the name — may finally be coming to an end.