After years of passionate advocacy, the film industry is finally giving stunt professionals long-overdue recognition: the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will introduce an official Oscar for achievement in stunt design, starting with the 100th Academy Awards, honoring films released in 2027.
“Stunt design has played a vital role in filmmaking since cinema began,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang in a joint statement. “We’re proud to celebrate the innovative, technical, and creative contributions of these artists, and applaud their dedication in reaching this historic moment.”
The academy’s production and technology branch includes over 100 stunt professionals, making this move a significant acknowledgment of their importance. Director David Leitch, who began his career as a stunt double for stars like Brad Pitt and went on to helm action-packed films such as John Wick and The Fall Guy, was instrumental in pushing for the award. Alongside stunt coordinator and designer Chris O’Hara of Stunts Unlimited, Leitch presented to the academy in support of the new category.
“Stunts are part of every film genre and deeply embedded in our cinematic tradition—from legends like Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd to today’s incredible stunt teams,” said Leitch. “Chris and I have worked for years to help make this happen, building on the efforts of countless stunt professionals who’ve fought for recognition.”
O’Hara, the first person to be officially credited as a “stunt designer” for his work on The Fall Guy, emphasized how much the industry has evolved. “We used to be seen as daredevil cowboys. Now, we’re part of the creative vision, just like costume or production designers.”
At the 2024 Oscars, stunts were celebrated in a tribute montage that highlighted over a century of iconic action scenes—from silent film legends to blockbusters like Mission: Impossible and The Matrix. Meanwhile, other awards shows have already been acknowledging this craft: the Emmys include stunt coordination and performance categories, and the Screen Actors Guild Awards honor stunt ensembles.
The stunt design Oscar follows the recent addition of a casting award, which will begin with films released in 2025. However, it’s still unclear whether either category will be included in the live telecast.
Chad Stahelski, co-director of John Wick and a former stunt performer, welcomed the development but pointed out challenges ahead. “It’s amazing to see an Academy Award for stunt design finally happen,” he said. “But who decides who wins it? It’s not like the old days—stunt work is now a highly collaborative process.”
He added, “We’ve waited a century for this recognition. Now let’s make sure the award truly reflects the entire team behind these incredible achievements.”
