Film about famous ice-water training guru 'on hold' after allegations of abuse

A film about "The Iceman" Wim Hof has been put on hold after his former partner alleged he subjected her and her children to years of abuse.

It follows allegations in the Dutch newspaper de Volkskrant on Saturday that Hof physically and psychologically abused his ex-girlfriend, their son, and her two eldest children for thirteen years.

Hof, 65, has denied all allegations, has said he "is not violent," and claimed his ex is on "the warpath" and "now wants to make it all seem different than it was".

He has since filed a complaint for alleged defamation and slander.

Hof's eldest son, Enahm Hof, who was mentioned in the article, said in a statement given to The Guardian newspaper that the allegations of abuse were "entirely false," calling them "grossly exaggerated" and "deeply hurtful".

He said his father "did not recognise" many of the accusations mentioned in the Dutch paper.

Sky News has reached out to representatives for Hof for comment.

The movie biopic had been set to star Joseph Fiennes as the eccentric health guru, who gained worldwide prominence for his love of cold-water training. Fiennes was also listed as a co-producer.

The British production company behind the film said in a statement: "Genesius Pictures can confirm that due to the severity of the allegations, this production, which was in development only and had not begun filming, is on hold".

The film also had director Kevin Macdonald and screenwriter Jeff Pope attached, and was set to explore Hof's rise to fame from a struggling single father and postman to a world-famous health guru, with a legion of celebrity fans.

Titled The Iceman, it was announced in 2022, and had previously been billed as an "inspiring", "moving" and "at times very funny".

The website for the film has since been taken offline.

Controversial method

Born in the Netherlands, Hof, was one of nine children and has an identical twin brother. He is a father of four.

His first wife took her own life in 1995, with Hof previously saying his time spent in freezing water was the only time he didn't think about the loss.

In 2007, Hof completed an Arctic marathon barefoot, but the same year had to abort a mission to climb Mount Everest wearing just shorts and sandals due to a foot injury.

Despite his fame and legion of celebrity fans, there has been controversy over his method of using freezing water and breathing techniques to improve health.

Family members of a number of people who died while allegedly attempting Hof's methods have previously raised concerns over the safety of the wellness trend.

While the NHS says cold therapy can help reduce swelling and pain, it also says it can cause cold shock, which can lead to hyperventilation, increased blood pressure, and muscle weakness. It warns that it can be dangerous for people with heart conditions.