(Image Source: Universal Pictures)
The call for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to recognize the contributions of stunt performers at the Academy Awards has been a growing topic of discussion in recent years. Many fans and industry professionals have long argued that the dedication of stunt performers, stunt coordinators, and related personnel absolutely warrants a new Oscar category, consistently urging the Academy to address the issue. Today, that wish has finally come true. The Academy has officially announced the addition of a new "Stunt Design" award, set to debut at the 100th Academy Awards in 2028.
(Image Source: Sony Pictures)
This historic achievement was spearheaded by David Leitch (pictured left, below), who successfully transitioned from stunt performer to director with recent hits like "The Fall Guy" and "Bullet Train." Leitch, alongside veteran stunt coordinator Chris O'Hara and other stunt community colleagues, presented several proposals to the Academy, ultimately convincing them to approve the new award.
Leitch stated in a press release: "Stunts are vital to every genre of film and and are deeply rooted in the history of our industry — from the groundbreaking achievements of early pioneers like Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd, and Charlie Chaplin, to the inspiring artistry of today's stunt designers, stunt coordinators, stunt performers, and choreographers. For many of us, this has been a long journey. Chris O'Hara and I have worked for years to achieve this moment, standing on the shoulders of professional stunt practitioners who have tirelessly fought for recognition for decades. We are incredibly grateful. Thank you, Academy."
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Chad Stahelski, who also started as a stunt performer and co-directed the first "John Wick" film with Leitch, told Variety, "We are honored to be recognized by the best in the business. I think it's an even more extraordinary achievement, considering we're talking about over 100 years of stunt history; this department has existed since the very beginning of cinema. It's great to see the Academy truly listen to the stunt committee, and they're not just giving out an award, I think they've done something very interesting: they're awarding 'Stunt Design' rather than a single performer, because our department is one of the most collaborative and complex departments of all."
The eligibility criteria and voting rules for the Stunt Design award will be announced in 2027, alongside the full regulations for the 100th Academy Awards. The precise details of the award's presentation will be determined by the Academy's Board of Governors and executive leadership in the future, with many specifics still pending.