On a recent episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Keanu Reeves, star of “John Wick” and the upcoming “Bill & Ted Face the Music,” shared fascinating insights into the physical demands and thrills of performing his own action scenes — including an unusual horse fight.
Stephen Colbert welcomed Reeves with enthusiasm, highlighting his career-defining roles from Speed to The Matrix and the John Wick franchise. The conversation quickly shifted to Reeves’ intense action sequences in the latest John Wick films.
“I do my action,” Reeves explained, distinguishing between doing his fight choreography and leaving the more dangerous stunts — like getting hit by a car — to his professional stunt double, Jackson Spidell. “He gets hit by the car, and then I get up and do all the fighting.”
When Colbert asked about a particular scene involving a horse, Reeves described the unique challenge of fighting while riding. “You’re not just riding the horse — you’re doing a gunfight, fighting on the horse. It’s fun!” Reeves laughed, though he acknowledged the risks. “You can die,” he admitted with a grin.
Reeves detailed the safety measures taken during filming, including a complex rig where the horse is safely controlled behind a truck. “You won’t see that in the movie,” he promised, “but hopefully people will enjoy it.”
The actor also talked about his experience working with animals on set, including Halle Berry’s extensive six-month dog training for the film. Reeves himself had to learn how to build relationships with the dogs but admitted to avoiding eye contact initially to avoid startling them.
One amusing story involved a dog that escaped during filming in Times Square and chased a horse cart, causing a brief moment of chaos.
Beyond action, Reeves shared exciting news about reprising his beloved role in the new Bill & Ted sequel, Bill & Ted Face the Music. The film finds the duo decades later, struggling to write the song that will save the universe.
“The pressure is on,” Reeves said. “They have to write the song in 80 minutes or the universe ends.”
When Colbert turned philosophical and asked what Reeves thinks happens after death, the star responded simply and warmly, “I know that the ones who love us will miss us.”
John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum is set to hit theaters soon, promising more breathtaking action and Reeves’ trademark intensity. Fans can also look forward to Bill & Ted Face the Music, where the iconic duo returns to rock once again.