Podcast Summary: The Adam Carolla Show – Action Star Scott Adkins on Martial Arts, John Wick, and His New Film “Diablo”
Release Date: June 11, 2025
Guests:
- Scott Adkins – Actor, Martial Artist, and Star of "John Wick 4" and "Diablo"
- Alicia Krauss – News and Trending Topics Segment Host
1. Introduction to Scott Adkins
Timestamp: [03:22]
Adam Carolla welcomes Scott Adkins, highlighting his roles as an actor and martial artist, notably his appearance in "John Wick 4" where he played the formidable antagonist. Adam recalls their previous interaction, noting his amusement at Scott's role in the fat suit.
Notable Quote:
“Scott Adkins, all the way from London town is joining me. Scott's an actor, he's a martial artist, he's a movie star. Diablo is his latest film that's out June 13th in theaters and on digital and on demand as well.” – [04:05]
2. Scott's Early Martial Arts Journey
Timestamp: [05:38 – 06:04]
Scott shares his introduction to martial arts at the age of 10, influenced by his father and older brother who practiced judo. However, his passion was ignited at 13 after being mugged on a bus, an event that pushed him to train rigorously.
Notable Quote:
“And for some reason I was smiling and the guy goes, what are you smiling at? I said, well, you know, it's kind of fun, isn't it? I've never been mugged before. And he smacked me in the face...” – [06:04]
3. Experience Working on "Diablo"
Timestamp: [07:59 – 08:52]
Scott delves into his latest project, "Diablo," discussing its filming in Colombia alongside fellow "John Wick 4" star Marco Zaror. He emphasizes the collaborative effort with director Ernesto from Chile and the challenges of working within a limited shooting schedule.
Notable Quote:
“We create, we came up with a story and Marco's from Chile and he thought I should work with his director Ernesto, who's also from Chile.” – [07:59]
4. Hollywood's Budget and Time Constraints
Timestamp: [09:10 – 10:36]
Adam and Scott discuss the impact of budget on film production timelines. Scott humorously critiques Hollywood's allocation of funds, suggesting excessive spending on catering rather than on essential aspects like special effects.
Notable Quote:
“They spent too much money on the catering to begin with... those cookies.” – [09:13]
Scott explains his own approach to budgeting, emphasizing efficiency and prioritizing action sequences over peripheral expenses.
Notable Quote:
“It's really just a feeling more than anything... and then I started having little flashbacks like, oh, he took his dad's garage and turned it into a dojo.” – [05:19]
5. Maintaining Fitness and Managing Injuries
Timestamp: [10:36 – 12:35]
Scott outlines his disciplined fitness regimen, focusing on mobility, strength training, and a protein-rich diet. He discusses the importance of maintaining physical health, especially post-filming, to recover from injuries and prepare for future roles.
Notable Quote:
“Breakfast. Eggs, Just eggs. And if I'm feeling fancy, I'll have some bacon and some avocado.” – [11:34]
6. Challenges of Being an Action Star in the Age of AI
Timestamp: [17:40 – 22:19]
A significant portion of the conversation centers on the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in film-making and its potential to replace action stars. Scott expresses concern over the lifelike quality of AI-generated actors and its implications for the future of action films, fearing it could undermine the authenticity and physicality that actors like him bring to their roles.
Notable Quote:
“I just can't compute in my brain how quickly it's getting so good and so lifelike. And obviously, in my business, I think to myself, okay, this is it. The end is nigh. Especially for the action films.” – [17:45]
Adam counters by suggesting a resurgence of tactile and authentic performances, likening it to the enduring popularity of movie theaters despite technological advancements.
Notable Quote:
“We keep saying, it's gonna go away, it's gonna go away. And yet it's never been the end. We persevere.” – [23:18]
7. Role Models and Influences in Martial Arts Cinema
Timestamp: [44:09 – 46:23]
Scott pays homage to legendary martial artists, placing Bruce Lee at the pinnacle of his Mount Rushmore of martial artists. He praises Lee's contributions to martial arts philosophy and his cultural impact, as well as other icons like Jackie Chan and Jean-Claude Van Damme, whose performances inspired him during his youth.
Notable Quote:
“Of course, it's Bruce Lee. He's the ultimate. He's the best to ever do it... he does it with such style and panache and grace and intent.” – [44:44]
8. Upcoming Projects and Future Endeavors
Timestamp: [56:04 – 58:25]
Scott discusses his active pipeline, mentioning "Prisoner of War," a film he wrote, and his involvement in "Rip," directed by Joe Carnahan alongside Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and leveraging the skills of others to bring his ideas to fruition.
Notable Quote:
“It's about these stash houses in Miami where there can either be drugs and cash or both... It's a very authentic script.” – [56:49]
Adam encourages Scott to continue his disciplined approach, likening his career trajectory to a "bullet train" that requires constant forward momentum and preparation.
Notable Quote:
“You have to keep throwing track out ahead of you. You have to have the next one planned for the one after and all that because everything is a year behind.” – [53:28]
9. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts
Timestamp: [58:39 – 59:07]
As the interview wraps up, Adam and Scott exchange pleasantries, reaffirming their professional relationship and Scott's upcoming appearances and film releases.
Notable Quote:
“Diablo's the name of the movie out June 13th in theaters on digital and on demand. And, Scott, we'll follow up because... Come by, we'll talk about Rip.” – [58:39]
Conclusion: In this episode, Scott Adkins offers an in-depth look into his career as an action star and martial artist, shedding light on the physical and mental discipline required to excel in the demanding world of action cinema. He discusses the challenges posed by emerging technologies like AI, shares insights into his latest projects, and pays tribute to the martial arts legends who paved the way for his success. Adam Carolla facilitates a candid and engaging conversation, enriched with humor and personal anecdotes, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of Scott Adkins' journey and perspectives.