Action movie star Jason Statham has paid tribute to the bravery of stuntman Joe Watts, who was seriously injured during filming on the set of the latest Fast and Furious film.

The Hobbs and Shaw star was speaking at the premiere of his latest movie, calling Mr Watts his “best mate” in the film industry.

Filming for the new Fast and Furious 9 film at Warner Bros Studios in Leavesden was halted on Monday after Mr Watts suffered severe head injuries after falling on set. He has since been taken to hospital.

Mr Statham, who is well versed in the dangers of the action genre, wished Mr Watts a speedy recovery.

Speaking to PA, the actor said: "It's a very, very concerning thing when someone gets hurt. The families have to endure that difficulty.

"It's absolutely awful news, and we just wish him the best."

He added that stuntmen are “unsung heroes” and “have been my firm favourite on any movie set”.

The action star continued: “They are the ones that put themselves in harm's way to make other people look good.

“I've worked closely with them for many years.

"I have to hone these action moments and fight sequences, hand-to-hand combat. We train all the time.

"I'm more at home in the company of stuntmen than any other department. These are my close pals.

"They are really uncelebrated, and it's a real shame because they are incredibly skilled.”

According to the MirrorOnline, a Facebook post by Mr Watts’ partner, Tilly Powell, said he had been placed in an induced coma. The post has since been deleted.

Mr Watts, a gymnastics coach, has taught at Creative Academy in Slough for five years.

Slough Borough Council, which runs the college, also wished Mr Watts a speedy recovery, who said they were “saddened” by the incident.

A spokeswoman for the council said: “Staff and students from the Creative Academy at Slough Borough Council were saddened to hear of Joe’s accident.

“We hope he makes a speedy recovery and send our best wishes to Joe and his family.”