During the filming of This Is the End, Rihanna and Michael Cera made a surprising off-camera agreement that resulted in one of the film’s most memorable scenes. The movie, known for its wild and exaggerated portrayal of celebrities during an apocalypse, features Cera playing a heightened version of himself as a reckless and out-of-control partygoer. In one scene, his character slaps Rihanna on the behind, which prompts her to turn around and deliver a real and forceful slap to his face. This wasn’t just acting; the two agreed beforehand that Cera could slap her for real, but only if she could do the same in return.
Seth Rogen, who co-wrote and directed the film, shared that they filmed the scene three or four times, each time with Rihanna landing a genuine slap on Cera’s face. The take they used in the movie was so intense that it actually threw Cera off balance and affected his equilibrium, forcing him to lie down in his trailer afterward. Rogen added that no additional sound effects were needed for the scene, as the slap was real and impactful enough on its own. The moment perfectly captured the film’s absurd and over-the-top humor, while showcasing Rihanna’s willingness to fully commit to the comedic role.
Cera later reflected on the experience, expressing that he was happy with how the scene turned out and that the authenticity made it much funnier. He felt that a staged or fake slap wouldn’t have had the same comedic effect and that Rihanna’s genuine reaction added a layer of realism to the outrageous scenario. He also joked that the experience, while painful, was worth it for the sake of comedy, and he appreciated how it came across on screen.
The scene has since become iconic, not just for its shock value, but for the behind-the-scenes story that highlights the playful yet professional dynamic between the actors. It’s a testament to the lengths the cast went to in order to make the film as hilarious and unexpected as possible. The collaboration between Rihanna and Cera in this moment remains a standout example of the unpredictable and chaotic energy that defines This Is the End.
